Simeone Faces Injury Setbacks as Atletico Madrid Prepares for UCL Clash with Arsenal and Athletic Bilbao Showdown

Atlético Madrid have suffered a fresh injury setback ahead of their Champions League semi-final first leg against Arsenal, with midfielder Pablo Barrios forced off during Saturday’s La Liga victory over Athletic Club.

Barrios, who had only recently returned from a previous injury spell, was reintroduced to the starting lineup by Diego Simeone for the clash at the Metropolitano. However, midway through the second half, the 22-year-old Spanish international went down clutching his left leg after a challenge with Yuri Berchiche and was unable to continue.

Gritting his teeth in pain, Barrios was substituted by Simeone, confirming his absence for the upcoming European semi-final. The injury adds to Atlético’s growing concerns as they prepare to face Arsenal in the first leg next Wednesday.

The setback comes despite Atlético securing a 3-2 victory over Athletic Club, a result Simeone praised for his team’s resilience. Speaking after the match, the Argentine head coach acknowledged the fight shown by his players but confirmed the latest blow to his squad’s availability.

Barrios’ injury compounds earlier doubts surrounding the fitness of key attackers Ademola Lookman and Alexander Sorloth. Both players had been monitored following minor injuries sustained in recent matches, with Simeone earlier indicating they could return for Saturday’s La Liga fixture depending on their recovery.

Lookman had reportedly suffered an adductor issue in the Copa del Rey final, while Sorloth picked up a concern despite playing the full match in that game. Atlético had placed both on individualised training plans, leaving their participation in the Arsenal tie uncertain.

Simeone had stated that medical staff would assess Lookman and Sorloth after their injuries, noting that recovery for the Athletic Club game was possible if no setbacks occurred. Their potential return would have provided a boost ahead of the Arsenal semi-final, but Barrios’ absence now adds another layer of concern for the visiting side.

Lookman has been in recent form, scoring three goals in his last five appearances, including an equaliser against Real Sociedad. Sorloth has contributed six Champions League goals this season, including a strike at Barcelona in the previous round, despite limited starting opportunities.

With Barrios now ruled out, Atlético will look to other midfield options as they prepare for the first leg at home next Wednesday. The reverse fixture will follow six days later at the Emirates Stadium.