Atletico Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder in line to start vs Atletico after missing last two games – report
Real Madrid’s clash against Liverpool was the mark of the beginning of a challenging period for Carlo Ancelotti’s men. The men in white face Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Betis in their next three games across all competitions.
With a hectic and challenging schedule ahead, the manager can only hope to have as many fit players as possible to navigate through the situation. Ahead of the Madrid derby, Ancelotti has seemingly been granted such a gift.
According to reports from MARCA, Aurelien Tchouameni is back and is expected to start against Atletico Madrid on Saturday. Needless to say, this is big news for the Real Madrid camp.
The youngster suffered close to a month out of action after an injury early in January. He came back for Los Blancos’ game against Valencia and played a key part in Real Madrid’s march to the Club World Cup. However, the joy was short-lived as he was once again left out of the squad after the win over Elche with flu.
The French midfielder is now back and raring to go, and his return could not come at a better time.
In the youngster’s absence, the onus to cover the defensive midfield position had fallen on Eduardo Camavinga. While the French international did a good job filling his compatriot’s shoes, Tchouameni looks set replace him tomorrow as the former requires rest.
Tchouameni has played 17 games for Los Blancos this season, providing two assists and averaging over ten defensive actions per game. His seamless transition since the summer has left no reason for fans to miss Casemiro, the Brazilian legend who owned the defensive midfield slot at Madrid not too long ago.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Diego Simeone’s side on Saturday night given the pre-existing eight-point gap with Barcelona. Needless to say, the former Monaco man must be decisive if his side are to take all three points.
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.
