Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman is a major doubt for Atalanta’s UEFA Champions League round of 16 playoff clash against Club Brugge. The Nigerian star sustained a knee injury two weeks ago, casting doubt over his availability for the crucial tie.
Atalanta’s Champions League Playoff Challenge
Atalanta faces a tough test against Belgian side Club Brugge as they battle for a spot in the Champions League round of 16. Under the new competition format, teams that finished 9th to 24th in the standings must compete in playoffs to secure qualification.
The first leg is set to take place on February 12 at the Jan Breydel Stadium in Belgium. However, Atalanta’s squad is dealing with multiple injury concerns, with key players such as Gianluca Scamacca, Giorgio Scalvini, Daniel Maldini, and Odilon Kossounou ruled out.
Will Ademola Lookman Be Fit to Play?
Lookman, Atalanta’s joint-top scorer in the Champions League, is currently recovering from a knee injury. While initial fears suggested a severe setback, the 27-year-old winger returned to light training last week.
According to Foot Italia, Lookman is unlikely to feature in the first leg due to lack of match fitness. However, Atalanta’s medical team remains hopeful that he will be fully recovered for the return leg in Italy next week.
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When Will Ademola Lookman Return to Action?
Atalanta is expected to ease Lookman back into action cautiously. He is set to miss the first leg against Club Brugge unless a last-minute recovery occurs.
However, Lookman could return for Atalanta’s Serie A clash against Cagliari at the weekend, where he might be introduced from the bench to regain match fitness. If all goes well, the Nigerian international should be fully fit for the second leg of the Champions League playoff.
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What This Means for Atalanta
Losing Lookman would be a significant blow for Atalanta, as he has been a key attacking asset this season. However, the club will focus on getting a solid result in Belgium before finishing the job at home.
Fans will be eager for updates on Lookman’s fitness, as his return could be decisive in securing Atalanta’s progression to the next stage of the tournament.
