Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid midfielder ruled out of derby against Real Madrid – report
According to the latest updates from Pedro Fullana of SER, Atletico Madrid have been dealt an injury blow ahead of the weekend’s derby against Real Madrid as Rodrigo De Paul is out with an injury.
Real Madrid and Atletico will lock horns at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday night in a crucial match in La Liga.
The Rojiblancos are currently in fourth place in the La Liga table, ten points off their neighbours who occupy the second spot and two behind third-placed Real Sociedad.
While things have improved for Diego Simeone’s side in recent weeks, the importance of the derby cannot be overstated.
However, they will have to make do without one of their main midfielders in Rodrigo De Paul as per the report.
The Argentine World Cup winner has had his ups and downs at the club, but is an influential member on the pitch with his quality, energy, and work ethic.
But, he has suffered a muscular injury in his left thigh as confirmed by the club before training earlier today. And SER reports that it has effectively ruled the former Udinese man out of the contest against Real Madrid.
De Paul joins Sergio Reguilon on the treatment tables at Atletico Madrid and looks set to miss the derby, while January signing Memphis Depay is also termed a doubt for the match.
Meanwhile, Yannick Carrasco is also training by himself and it remains to be seen if he recovers from his issue in time for the weekend encounter.
Real Madrid, for their part, also have a couple of injury doubts for the derby on Saturday as David Alaba and Rodrygo could be unavailable after sustaining knocks against Liverpool last night.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
