Atlético de Madrid is preparing to face Manchester United on the second day of the group stage of the Champions League, with coach Diego Simeone having his entire squad available to decide the starting eleven. After the match against Deportivo Alavés in Mendizorrotza, in which some players had more rest, the Atlético coaching staff seems to be leaning towards the return of Marc Pubill, David Hancko, Kang-In Lee, Álex Baena or Julián Álvarez, among others.
The Argentine, who started at Anfield and played the entire second half in last week's game, is presented as a visible option for the lineup. He has not yet scored in the “La Araña” campaign, but his participation is considered key for the team that seeks to consolidate itself in the group stage. Atlético's probable eleven could include Jan Oblak in goal, with Llorente, Pubill, Cuti Romero, Hancko and Grimaldo in defense; in midfield Kang-In Lee, Barrios, Hjulmand or Cardoso, and Baena; and in attack Julián Álvarez.
For its part, Manchester United also has a full squad, although coach Michael Carrick must manage the absence of players such as Benjamin Sesko, Patrick Dorgu, Matthijs de Ligt, Nousair Mazraouo, Manuel Ugarte, Kobee Mainoo and Luke Shaw. The eleven that the English club is expected to field includes Lammens in goal, Yoro, Maguire, Lisandro and Dalot in defense; Tielemans and Baleba in midfield; and Mbeumo, Bruno Fernandes, Rashford and Cunha up front.
The match promises to be a clash of styles and an opportunity for both teams to demonstrate their capabilities in the group stage. Atlético, with its tactical approach and the presence of key players, seeks to consolidate its position in the table, while Manchester United intends to take advantage of the absence of some of its starters to ensure a favorable result. With both teams ready for the challenge, fans can look forward to an exciting day in which strategy and individual quality will be put to the test on the European stage.