Ademola Lookman is back and hungry. The Nigerian winger has confirmed he's fit to play in Atletico Madrid's massive Champions League semi-final against Arsenal this Wednesday at the Metropolitano, and honestly, he sounds buzzing about it.
Lookman missed Atletico's last two games with an adductor injury, but he's trained with the squad and is expected to start. "I missed the last few matches, but now I feel much better," he told press on Monday. The man knows what's coming too – he played Arsenal as a kid with Charlton, so this is full circle moment energy.
"Wednesday will be a very special game," he said. No pressure, right? But that's the thing about Lookman this season – he's become one of Atletico's most important attacking players under Diego Simeone, and Arsenal will have their hands full trying to deal with him.
The 26-year-old also gave mad respect to Simeone for helping him develop. "I've grown in every way with Diego Simeone, especially defensively. I think I'm a more complete player now, but I can still improve in every aspect. It's great to have his trust, it gives you even more confidence." That's the kind of player Atletico need right now – someone who's matured, defensive-minded, and clinical in attack.
Lookman also touched on the crazy atmosphere at the Metropolitano. "As long as we have the fans with us, it's special. They give us a lot of energy. When we played in Barcelona, the fans were at our hotel since 11am, that feeling is just unmatched." That's the kind of home advantage that can change a Champions League tie, and Atletico will need every bit of it before they head to the Emirates for the second leg.
With Lookman back, Simeone has all his weapons ready. Arsenal better come correct.
