Atletico Madrid Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Champions League Showdown with Real Madrid

Injury doubts loom over Atletico's lineup

Diego Simeone’s side entered the weekend with a perfect chance to level the Champions League tie after Real Madrid’s 2‑1 win at the Bernabéu. Instead, a costly 2‑1 defeat to Getafe not only dented their La Liga title hopes but also left two of the team’s most reliable starters doubtful for the return leg.

Clement Lenglet suffered a muscle pull during the warm‑up before the Getafe match. The French centre‑back had been impressing in recent weeks, often preferred over Robin Le Normand for his composure on the ball and aerial prowess. His sudden limp forced the medical team to sideline him for the rest of the game, raising concerns about his availability for the midweek Champions League clash.

Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, equally vital for Simeone’s pressing system, started against Getafe but was forced off at the break after a niggling injury flared up. De Paul’s work‑rate and ability to link defense with attack have made him a keystone in Atletico’s midfield, and his absence would strip the team of much of its engine room.

What the missing players mean for the tie

If Lenglet and De Paul sit out, Simeone faces a tactical dilemma. Defensively, he may have to rely on the less experienced Le Normand or even rotate to a back‑three, potentially weakening the structure against a Real Madrid attack that boasts both pace and precision. In midfield, the options narrow to either a more defensive Gaitán or a risk‑filled gamble on a less seasoned youngster to fill De Paul’s box‑to‑box role.

The first leg left Atletico down 2‑1 but with the tie still within reach. A win at the Wanda Metropolitano would not only overturn the deficit but also provide a psychological edge against a side that thrives on momentum. However, the absence of a solid centre‑back and a dynamic midfielder could force the team into a more cautious approach, reducing the likelihood of the high‑pressing style that Simeone usually employs.

In the post‑match press conference, Simeone acknowledged the different nature of each injury and promised that the club’s medical staff would give a clear update before the Champions League fixture. He also hinted that if the two stars miss the midweek game, they could be back for the upcoming La Liga showdown on Sunday, a crucial encounter that could restore some pride after the Getafe set‑back.

With the clock ticking and the stakes high, Atletico Madrid must gamble on its depth and resilience. Whether the squad can adapt without Lenglet’s defensive steadiness and De Paul’s midfield drive will be the ultimate test before the decisive Champions League encounter at home.