dpAtlético Madrid are heading to one of their nightmare stadiums. The Ciutat de València has always presented an extra challenge for Diego Simeone’s side, but the coach will not be thinking about the upcoming Champions League clash. His game-by-game philosophy is more relevant than ever, and a victory is essential if Atlético are to move to the top of LaLiga, even temporarily.
It would put pressure on Barcelona and provide further confirmation that this season Atlético are winning at grounds where they have traditionally struggled, including Mendizorroza and Cornellà.
Johnny Cardoso out
USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso has been ruled out of the trip to Levante with a thigh injury sustained during Atlético’s Champions League game against Stuttgart on October 20.
The 25-year-old came off the bench for the final 21 minutes of the 1-1 draw in Germany but experienced discomfort toward the end of the game. Subsequent medical examinations confirmed a low-grade muscle injury in his thigh.
Cardoso has since been undergoing physiotherapy and rehabilitation work in the gym. He missed Atlético’s victory over Deportivo and has not recovered in time for Saturday’s game.
His availability for Tuesday’s Champions League meeting with Bayern Munich also remains uncertain. Atlético have not announced a definitive return date, although the American will be hoping to recover in time.
The setback comes at a frustrating moment for Cardoso, who had recently returned from a bout of gastroenteritis that kept him out of the game against Espanyol.
Simeone prepares for Bayern Munich with Romero back
Atlético, who host Bayern at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, are expected to field a lineup very similar to the one that will face the German giants.
There will be one major change at the back, with Cuti Romero returning to the defense. When fit, the Argentine is an automatic starter at center back. He will partner Hancko, potentially allowing Pubill to move to right back and Llorente to push forward into midfield.
Giuliano is also set to return to the starting lineup after being rested against Deportivo.
Despite the absences of Cardoso and Koke, neither of whom has recovered in time, Simeone can still field a strong team. Both midfielders will hope to be available against Bayern, a Champions League game for which Hjulmand is suspended.
The Dane is eligible to play against Levante, although Simeone could leave him on the bench and pair Llorente with Barrios in central midfield.
Who will partner Julián Álvarez in attack?
With Baena on the left, the biggest question mark concerns the attack.
Simeone is looking for a partner for Julián Álvarez, who has rediscovered his scoring touch in the last two games. Jonathan David, Kang-in Lee, Sørloth and Lookman are all competing for the spot.
The Canadian, who did not feature against Deportivo for tactical reasons, could get the nod.
Atlético Madrid predicted lineup against Levante
Atlético’s expected starting XI is: Oblak; Pubill, Cuti Romero, Hancko, Grimaldo; Giuliano, Barrios, Llorente, Baena; Julián Álvarez and Jonathan David.
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