Ademola Lookman has declared himself ready for Atletico Madrid’s Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, describing the two-legged tie as an emotional occasion and insisting he believes Atletico are capable of reaching the final, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles forward joined Atletico from Atalanta in January and has been one of Diego Simeone’s most important players since, scoring seven goals and contributing four assists across all competitions so far.
His impact came to an abrupt halt when he picked up an adductor injury in the 62nd minute of the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad earlier this month, forcing him to miss two consecutive La Liga fixtures and raising doubts over his availability for the biggest game of Atletico’s season.
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He returned to full squad training on Sunday, however, putting himself in contention for Wednesday’s first leg at the Metropolitano.
The tie carries a personal angle for Lookman that goes beyond football. He was born and raised in Wandsworth, south London, and cut his teeth in youth football at Charlton Athletic, making his path to a Champions League semi-final against a London club.
‘It’s emotional for me’
Speaking in a report by Mundo Deportivo, Lookman made clear where his loyalty sits going into Wednesday’s game, even as he acknowledged the weight of the occasion.
“Atletico is one of the best clubs in the world, with top players, the team is amazing, the fans are also,” he said.
“It’s a pleasure to play here, what’s happening to us is being fantastic. I want to help the team.”
On Arsenal, he offered respect without hesitation.
“They are a tough opponent, a top team, we have to be ready to fight. They are in the Champions League semi-finals, there are no easy rivals at this point. It will be a very tough match.”
The London connection was something he did not avoid.
“It’s emotional for me. I grew up in London. The first time was with the Charlton, being a child. Being from London it is a very special match, but what I want is to win.”
Lookman, who won the UEFA Europa League with Atalanta in 2024 and was named CAF Player of the Year the same year, also pointed to the Metropolitano crowd as a potential deciding factor in the first leg.
“As long as we have the fans with us, we’ll have a special power. Having our fans behind us is special, the atmosphere at home, the energy it gives us.”
The return leg takes place at the Emirates Stadium on May 5.
