Atlético de Madrid left behind yesterday's Copa del Rey tie against Getafe and is now focusing all its attention on the clash against Real Madrid. The red-and-white team cut three points from their neighbor in the last matchday and could become the sole leader in case of victory at Santiago Bernabéu. The colchonero team hasn't managed to defeat the Madrid side away since 2016 thanks to a solitary goal by Antoine Griezmann.
Simeone will have one more day of rest compared to his rival and already confirmed this week a piece of good news in the form of recovery. The Argentine coach could field his best eleven, something he hasn't had at his disposal in the last matches played. Meanwhile, the team led by Carlo Ancelotti will play its tie today against Leganés with the absence of Mbappé and Rüdiger.
Simeone receives the good news
It will be a very important weekend for Atlético de Madrid, although not decisive, as there are still many matchdays left for the LaLiga title to be decided. The red-and-white team won against Real Mallorca last week and was just one point behind Real Madrid after their away defeat against Espanyol. One must not forget the atmosphere being caused by the Madrid side with their continuous complaints about refereeing.
Away from any controversy, Simeone already received great news in yesterday's clash against Getafe in the form of recovery, as Javi Galán returned to the bench. The Extremaduran full-back suffered an injury against Bayer Leverkusen and hadn't been able to train with the rest of his teammates until this week. He is set to start as a starter at Santiago Bernabéu, although Reinildo and César Azpilicueta have filled his spot with great performance.
Doubts in Atlético de Madrid
Although there are still several training sessions left, it seems there are few uncertainties with the line-up that Simeone might propose to come out with the victory. Initially, Conor Gallagher is ahead of Samuel Lino and would return to occupy the left wing, a usual position for the English international. On the right, the trendy duo formed by Marcos Llorente and Giuliano Simeone would reappear, both at a great level in the last month of competition.
Obviously, Rodrigo de Paul and Pablo Barrios would form the double pivot, while Antoine Griezmann and Julián Alvarez would be at the forefront of the attack. Initially, Josema Giménez would be at the center of the defense right next to Clement Lenglet, as Robin Le Normand will have to serve a suspension cycle. There are still several days left for this match to be played, and Simeone's plans could change in light of future training sessions.