Sport
Lookman out of Atalanta’s clash at Barcelona with knee injury
Ademola Lookman will be absent for Atalanta’s crucial Champions League match against Barcelona, the Serie A club confirmed on Tuesday. The Nigerian forward sustained a knee injury during training and will not be part of the squad traveling to Spain.
Atalanta released a brief statement saying the 27-year-old injured the lateral joint in his right knee. As a result, Lookman will miss the pivotal clash on Wednesday, where Atalanta hopes to secure direct qualification for the Champions League round of 16.
While the club did not provide a timeline for his recovery, Italian media suggest that Lookman may be sidelined for up to a month.
Lookman’s absence is a significant blow for Atalanta, as the forward has been in top form this season, with 14 goals and six assists. His hat-trick in last season’s Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen was also a standout moment.
Atalanta, led by Gian Piero Gasperini, have impressed in both Serie A and European competitions. They are currently seventh in the Champions League group stage, with several clubs close behind. A win against already-qualified Barcelona is crucial for Atalanta to secure a direct spot in the last 16, with a draw or loss likely pushing them into the play-off rounds.