Mourning before Champions League battle: tragedy strikes Atlético captain’s family

Atlético Madrid has been plunged into mourning on the eve of a crucial European clash.

Details: Ana Merodio Borja, the mother of Colchoneros captain Koke and Borja Resurrección, assistant coach of the Juvenil A team, has passed away in Madrid. The Spanish club’s press service officially announced the heartbreaking loss.

Before the start of today’s Champions League match against Manchester United, a minute of silence will be held in memory of the deceased. UEFA fully approved the Madrid club’s request to stage the tribute, while the players will take to the field wearing black armbands.

A similar memorial ceremony will also take place before the teams’ UEFA Youth League encounter.

Atlético’s management, coaching staff, players and supporters extend their deepest condolences to the captain’s family and share their pain during these difficult hours.

It is worth noting that Koke is Atlético’s all-time appearance record holder, having devoted his entire playing career to his boyhood club and made more than 650 official appearances.

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