Atletico Madrid hosts Espanyol at the Metropolitano on Saturday night, with both clubs aiming to get back on track in LaLiga after recent setbacks.
Sitting fourth, Diego Simeone’s side have 45 points from 24 games, while Espanyol are sixth on 35 points after the same number of matches. Manolo Gonzalez, head coach of Espanyol, has yet to lose against Simeone, having recorded two draws and one win from their three previous clashes, which adds an extra edge to this fixture.
Atletico’s recent form has been mixed, with ups and downs across different competitions. They followed a 4-0 victory over Barcelona in the Copa del Rey on 12 February with a disappointing 3-0 loss to relegation-threatened Rayo Vallecano three days later.
Their latest outing saw them throw away a two-goal lead in a Champions League playoff against Club Brugge, eventually drawing 3-3 on 18 February.
Atletico Madrid team news
Diego Simeone is dealing with some important absences before this game. Nicolas González is still out injured, while Pablo Barrios remains sidelined with a right thigh muscle issue that has kept him out of recent matches.
Midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza is suspended due to yellow-card accumulation and will not be available for selection.
On the positive side, Álex Baena and José María Giménez, who had been carrying knocks, are back to full fitness and in contention to play.
Atletico Madrid predicted lineup
Possible Atletico Madrid starting XI: Oblak; Llorente, Lenglet, Gimenez, Hancko; Simeone, Koke, Cardoso, Lookman; Baena; Alvarez
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 8pm BST on Saturday, 21st February.
How to watch Atletico Madrid vs Espanyol?
In the UK, supporters can watch Atletico Madrid vs Espanyol live on Disney+.
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