Spurs Starting XI vs Atletico Madrid: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Spurs Predicted Lineup vs Atletico Madrid in Champions League

Tottenham’s Champions League campaign continues with a daunting assignment in Madrid, where Atletico Madrid host Spurs in the first leg of their last 16 tie. For Igor Tudor, the fixture represents more than a European contest. It is also an opportunity to establish momentum during a turbulent period for the club.

Results in domestic competition have left Spurs searching for stability, yet the Champions League offers a different stage and a different type of pressure. The selection choices Tudor makes for this match will shape not only the first leg but the broader mood around the squad.

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The Spurs predicted lineup has begun to take form following the manager’s latest update, with several important players returning to contention.

Richarlison Confirmed in Spurs Predicted Lineup

One element of the Spurs predicted lineup has already been confirmed. Richarlison will start against Atletico Madrid.

The Brazilian forward recently returned from a hamstring injury and has yet to begin a match under Tudor. His impact from the bench against Fulham provided encouragement despite Tottenham’s 2-1 defeat earlier this month.

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Tudor removed any uncertainty during his pre match press conference.

“He will start tomorrow.”

The decision reflects both necessity and opportunity. Spurs require attacking energy in Madrid, and Richarlison’s presence alongside Dominic Solanke could provide a more direct threat in the final third.

Defensive Boost Ahead of Atletico Madrid Clash

Defensive availability has been a recurring concern for Tottenham, which makes the return of two players particularly significant.

Djed Spence and Radu Dragusin have both travelled with the squad after missing the recent defeat to Crystal Palace. Their return provides Tudor with much needed depth at the back as Spurs prepare to contain Atletico’s attack.

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Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are also available for this Champions League encounter. Romero had missed the first three matches of Tudor’s interim spell due to suspension, while Van de Ven was sent off during the Palace defeat.

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Having that central defensive partnership available again should offer Spurs greater stability. Against a disciplined Atletico side, organisation and communication across the back line will be essential.

Midfield Decisions Influence Spurs Lineup

Midfield selection may prove the most intriguing aspect of Tottenham’s predicted lineup.

Conor Gallagher is expected to start against his former club less than two months after completing a £35million move to Spurs in January. He was surprisingly left out of the starting side against Crystal Palace, yet his energy and pressing ability appear well suited to the demands of a Champions League tie in Madrid.

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Tudor’s team selection against Palace also included the omission of Xavi Simons, a decision that raised eyebrows. The manager later addressed his squad’s mentality in blunt terms.

“Those who are in the boat can stay, the others can leave.”

Whether Simons returns to the starting lineup remains uncertain. If he were to begin on the bench again, it would inevitably prompt further discussion about his role under Tudor.

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Tottenham also adjusted their Champions League squad ahead of the knockout stage. Mathys Tel, Gallagher and Dragusin were included, while Souza and Yves Bissouma were left out of the European list.

Spurs Predicted Lineup vs Atletico Madrid

Tudor has emphasised that Spurs’ primary objective remains Premier League survival. Nevertheless, the Champions League offers a stage where confidence can be rebuilt.

A competitive performance in Madrid could provide the lift Tottenham have been seeking.

Spurs predicted lineup (3-4-1-2):Vicario; Danso, Romero, Van de Ven; Porro, Palhinha, Gallagher, Spence; Simons; Solanke, Richarlison.

Injured: Kudus, Bergvall, Bentancur, Davies, Udogie, Maddison, Kulusevski, OdobertIneligible: Souza, Bissouma

The match kicks off at 8pm GMT on Tuesday March 10, 2026 at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano in Madrid. Coverage in the UK will be available on TNT Sports.