Ademola Lookman’s bright night in the Copa del Rey Final ended in concern, after the Nigeria forward was forced off with an injury that could now shape both his club run-in and his country’s plans for the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Atlético Madrid attacker had been one of the standout performers on the pitch, scoring and causing constant problems for his marker before he signalled discomfort early in the second half. He was taken off in the 62nd minute, with early signs pointing to a problem in his adductor muscle, an area vital for sprinting, balance and quick changes of direction.
Club medical staff have since scheduled an MRI scan for Monday to determine the full extent of the damage as per Marca. Until those results arrive, there remains a sense of uncertainty around how serious the injury could be. Initial checks suggest it may be a strain, but only detailed imaging will confirm whether there is a tear and, crucially, how long Lookman could be out.
he timing of Lookman’s injury is far from ideal for Atlético. The Super Eagles attacker has been a key figure in recent weeks, contributing goals and assists while offering pace and directness in attack. Losing him, even temporarily, would be a blow at a critical stage of the season. The Spanish giants are set to face Premier League leaders Arsenal in the semifinal of the UEFA Champions League.
However, the bigger picture now stretches beyond club football, with Nigeria also watching developments closely.
Lookman: MRI results will decide Nigeria’s June plans
The outcome of Ademola Lookman’s MRI scan will effectively decide whether he can feature in Nigeria’s high-profile international friendlies against Poland and Portugal in June.
Head coach Éric Chelle had already planned to rest several senior stars, including Lookman, for the Unity Cup in May. That tournament is expected to focus on fringe players and domestic talents.
But the June fixtures are a different matter entirely as they are designed to test Nigeria’s strongest squad against top European opposition.
If the injury turns out to be a mild strain, Lookman could return within one to three weeks. In that case, he would likely regain full fitness in time for the June matches and remain a central part of Chelle’s plans.
A moderate injury, such as a partial tear, would create a more delicate situation. Recovery in that range can take between four and eight weeks, meaning Lookman might only just return to training around late May or early June. Even if he is declared fit, a lack of match sharpness could make selection risky, especially given the physical demands of facing elite opponents.
The worst-case scenario, a complete tear, would rule him out for up to four months. That would not only end his club season early but also see him miss both the Poland and Portugal games entirely.
That would be a significant setback for Nigeria, given Lookman’s notable influence in the team’s attack.
There is also a wider concern. Adductor injuries are known for their risk of recurrence if a player returns too quickly. Nigeria’s medical staff, alongside Atlético’s, will be cautious. Rushing him back for short-term gain could lead to a longer absence later.
For now, all eyes are on the MRI results. They will confirm the severity of the injury and help determine whether one of Nigeria’s most important attacking players will be ready when it matters most this summer.