Julián Álvarez misses Atlético Madrid’s Champions League opener | OneFootball

Atlético de Madrid will face a tough challenge in their Champions League debut: against Liverpool, this Tuesday from 16:00 at the always difficult Anfield. Despite the excitement in the Spanish capital, the bulging vein in Diego Simeone's neck suggests concern. This is because Julián Álvarez will not travel to England and will miss this crucial match to start on the right foot.

La Araña was dropped from the squad due to a right knee injury he has been carrying since last weekend, when he was substituted at halftime against Villarreal at home. This problem, which tests confirmed is a mild strain, appeared in the play of the first Atlético goal, when he turned to enable Pablo Barrios in the 1-0 at nine minutes of the initial stage.

Despite the discomfort in the joint, the Argentine forward completed the initial 45 minutes before chatting with Cholo in the locker room and staying on the bench during the second half. Since then he has worked separately, under the watchful eye of the medical staff, who recommended not to risk him for the European debut, even though the Reds are on the other side and Julián is Atlético's star player.

The absence of the former River player will not be the only one. Thiago Almada will also not be available after returning injured from the last double date of the South American Qualifiers with the Argentina National Team. Johnny Cardoso, with an ankle sprain, Álex Baena and José María Giménez are added to this list.

Among the positive news, David Hancko has recovered in time from a sprain and will be among the squad, as will Nicolás González (who debuted with a goal last weekend) and Robin Le Normand

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.