Atlético Madrid team news: Predicted starting XI to take on Tottenham Hotspur in the Champions League
Diego Simeone is set to field an attacking lineup for the trip to North London, with Alexander Sorloth set to partner Julián Álvarez.
Atlético Madrid head to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Wednesday with a three-goal advantage for the second leg of the Champions League clash. Atleti beat Tottenham 5-2 victory at the Metropolitano last week but still have work to do in North London.
Head coach Diego Simeone downplayed the scoreline ahead of the second leg, saying: “The best thing is to score first to put them in a more uncomfortable situation.” Simeone will aim to stop the wounded Spurs team gain any confidence in the tie and is expected to name a strong team.
One forced change is goalkeeper Juan Musso replacing the injured Jan Oblak. The Argentine is a reliable goalkeeper. In defense, everyone could start again, with Marc Pubill at full-back and Robin Le Normand, who scored the fourth goal, starting in the center of defense. It’s not an easy year, but Simeone wants to capitalize on his strength in duels against Dominic Solanke and Spurs’ aerial prowess. Dávid Hancko and Matteo Ruggeri complete the back four.
Le Normand’s inclusion is largely due to the need to rely on the energy of Marcos Llorente in a midfield that is once again without Pablo Barrios. The academy graduate suffered another injury after those few minutes against the English side and it likely be Llorente who partners Johnny Cardoso in the middle. Giuliano Simeone is a lock on the right, but there are more options on the left. Any of Ademola Lookman, Alex Baena, Nico Gonzalez could play on the left, but Antoine Griezmann looks like the best candidate.
Alexader Sorloth will play up front, alongside Julián Álvarez. This Atlético side also has considerable experience on the bench with Koke and Giménez. They hope to avoid any suspense, but Simeone has options to change the course of a match is required.
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