Ademola Lookman will miss Atletico Madrid's La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao due to ongoing recovery from an abductor issue. Coach Diego Simeone confirmed the forward is not ready to return, reversing earlier optimism that Lookman would be available for the weekend fixture. The Nigerian had been taken off during the Copa del Rey final as a precaution, a decision Simeone described as timely given the persistent discomfort. Lookman has been training separately from the main squad and was also left out of the matchday squad for Atletico's loss to Elche. The club is prioritizing his fitness ahead of the UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg against Arsenal next week.
Simeone's reversal on Lookman's availability exposes the gap between managerial optimism and physical reality. The decision to rest him again shows Atletico are treating his fitness as fragile, not imminent. Since Lookman plays for Nigeria, his extended absence could affect Super Eagles' preparations if the injury lingers. Any return timeline now hinges on recovery, not match urgency.
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