Atlético Madrid return to the Metropolitano with Europe still shaping the week. The demanding sequence through Athletic, Liverpool and Real Sociedad has left Diego Simeone balancing his resources before Osasuna, while Sunday’s derby against Real Madrid already looms over the selection.
Atlético weigh changes after Liverpool test and before derby
The Osasuna match is a major fixture in its own right, but Atlético’s recent travel and the approaching Madrid derby make rotation increasingly likely. Simeone must manage a squad coming off a taxing run of away assignments, including the Champions League visit to Liverpool.
Quick facts
- Atlético host Osasuna at the Metropolitano after trips to Athletic, Liverpool and Real Sociedad.
- Real Madrid await in Sunday’s derby.
- Alexander Sørloth, Julián Alvarez and Pablo Barrios are unavailable.
- Jan Oblak is expected to remain in goal.
- Jonathan David is in contention to start after scoring against Real Sociedad.
Oblak is not expected to be among the changes. The goalkeeper remains Simeone’s established first choice, but the defence could look different.
Marcos Llorente is in line to operate at right-back. A rest for Cristian Romero is also under consideration, with Marc Pubill or David Hancko possible alongside Robin Le Normand in central defence. Alejandro Grimaldo is expected to continue on the left.
Barrios’ absence complicates the midfield calculation. Morten Hjulmand and Johnny Cardoso are tipped to provide an energetic, physically demanding pairing, while Koke could be held back for later in the game despite his decisive contribution at Anoeta.
There may be further alterations in attack as Atlético distribute the workload from a crowded week. One of Álex Baena, Kang-in Lee and Ademola Lookman could begin on the bench, and Giuliano may also be given a breather after his recent exertions.
Mendoza is another option for the advanced midfield roles. David, encouraged by his goal and strong performance against Real Sociedad, has made a persuasive case to lead the line as Atlético seek to navigate the domestic test without losing sight of the European and derby demands around it.
SEO title: Atlético rotate after Liverpool as Osasuna and Real Madrid await
SEO description: Atlético Madrid consider changes against Osasuna after a demanding spell including Liverpool, with injuries, Jonathan David’s form and the Real Madrid derby shaping Simeone’s plans.
