Madrid is preparing for an unusually heavily guarded European night as Atlético de Madrid welcome Manchester United at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, with Spanish police designating the fixture as a high-risk event.
Some 3,500 Manchester United supporters are expected in the Spanish capital for the 16:00 Brasília-time kick-off, prompting an operation that will extend well beyond the streets around Atlético’s stadium. A total of 1,200 police officers have been assigned to the match, with patrols also planned at tourist areas and other locations across Madrid.
United’s travelling fans will be monitored before, during and after the game as the authorities seek to manage movement through the city as well as access to the Metropolitano. Atlético will supplement the public operation with 700 private security staff, while the club has urged its own supporters to arrive early to reduce the risk of congestion and disorder around the ground.
A fixture with recent memory
The two clubs last met in Madrid in February 2022, when their Champions League round-of-16 first leg ended 1-1. Security was also tightened for that occasion. Atlético subsequently travelled to England and won the return match 1-0, taking the tie and progressing at Manchester United’s expense.
That recent history adds a familiar edge to another meeting between the Spanish side and one of England’s most widely supported clubs, with Madrid’s authorities preparing for the visitors’ presence throughout the day rather than only at the stadium gates.
