Carrasco launched straight into Atlético squad for Madrid clash
Diego Simeone has named new signing Yannick Carrasco in his 20-man squad for the trip to the Bernabéu on Saturday to face Real Madrid.
Yannick Carrasco is set to be catapulted straight into action after Atlético Madrid confirmed the Belgian’s signing on Friday.
Carrasco has been included in Diego Simeone’s 20-man squad for the crunch derby with Real Madrid at the Bernabéu on Saturday afternoon (kick-off, 16:00 CET).
The 26-year-old winger, who played for Atlético from 2015 and 2018, has returned to the club on loan from Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang and will likely play some part in Saturday’s game.
Trippier out, Lemar returns
English left back Kieran Trippier has been left out of the squad as he is still struggling with a groin issue, while Thomas Lemar comes back into Simeone’s side after a spell on the side-lines. The French midfielder has not played for Los Rojiblancos since the December 22.
Aside from Trippier, Simone will be without Santiago Arias, José Giménez, Koke and Diego Cost for the trip to the Bernabéu.
With Arias and Trippier both unavailable, all indications are that Vrsaljko will start at right back. The Croatian defender started his first game for the club against Leganés last weekend after a year-long spell on the side-lines due to a knee injury.
Carrasco’s first message
Ahead of Saturday’s derby, Carrasco – who became Atlético’s alternative signing for Edinson Cavani after talks with the PSG striker fell through – posted a message on his Instagram to express his happiness on returning to the club.
"Very happy to return home. With great desire and enthusiasm to put on the Atlético Madrid shirt and give everything for these colours! Aúpa Atleti!!,” posted the Belgian international, who will hope to start against Los Blancos on Saturday.