Madrid, April 27: Atlético Madrid’s coach Diego Simeone has expressed concerns over the fitness of four players ahead of the Champions League semifinal first leg against Arsenal at their home ground on Wednesday. The players in question are Julián Álvarez, David Hancko, Ademola Lookman, and José María Giménez.
After suffering a defeat in the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad, Atlético’s only chance to secure a title this season now lies in Europe. Simeone’s team will face Arsenal, who have seen a dip in form in recent weeks. This match is crucial for the club’s bid to reach the Champions League final for the third time under the Argentine coach.
According to a report from the Xinhua news agency, Spanish international midfielder Pablo Barrios will miss both legs of the semifinal due to a muscle injury sustained during a 3-2 victory against Athletic Club on Saturday. Additionally, the availability of Julián Álvarez, David Hancko, Ademola Lookman, and José María Giménez remains uncertain.
Álvarez did not play against Athletic as a precaution, having been rested after a loss to Elche the previous Wednesday. However, he is expected to be fit for the clash against Arsenal.
Hancko has been sidelined for nearly three weeks due to an ankle injury but trained with the team on Friday. Coach Simeone mentioned that while he is still in recovery, he could at least make the substitute bench.
Lookman’s situation is more doubtful. The impressive Nigerian winger sustained a groin injury during the Copa del Rey final on April 18 and has not trained with the team since. The club aims to avoid any risk of re-injury, making his chances of starting slim.
Meanwhile, Giménez has missed Atlético’s last six matches due to a muscle injury. He increased his training last week but has yet to practice with the team, making it likely he will watch Wednesday’s match from the stands.
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