Will Julián Álvarez play against Real Madrid? Simeone gives his answer
Diego Simeone has delivered encouraging news about Julián Álvarez ahead of the Madrid derby.
Details: Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has confirmed that Argentine striker Julián Álvarez will be available for the upcoming La Liga clash against Real Madrid. However, the manager has yet to decide whether the forward will be included in the starting lineup or introduced after the break. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Simeone said:
"Julián Álvarez will be with us for the Madrid derby. We will decide whether he starts or comes on in the second half."
The Argentine forward has been dealing with a muscle problem that forced him to miss Atlético's previous two matches. Álvarez was absent from the squad for the La Liga encounter against Real Sociedad on September 13 and subsequently missed the home game against Osasuna on September 16.
The 26-year-old striker returned to training with the team on Friday, September 18, raising hopes that he would recover in time for the highly anticipated meeting with Real Madrid. Simeone's latest comments have now confirmed his availability, although his place in the starting eleven remains uncertain.
The Madrid derby will take place on Sunday, September 20, at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano as part of the seventh round of the Spanish championship. Atlético will enter the match following consecutive league victories over Real Sociedad and Osasuna, while Real Madrid will arrive having won five of their opening six La Liga fixtures.
It's worth noting that Atlético Madrid defeated Real Sociedad 3-0 and Osasuna 4-0 without Álvarez in their squad. The Argentine's return gives Simeone another attacking option for the derby, with the final decision on his role to be made ahead of the encounter.
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Steven Perez
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