Atletico Madrid will be without three key stars for tonight's Champions League semi-final showdown with Arsenal. Diego Simeone's side host the Gunners at the Wanda Metropolitano this evening looking to draw first blood before their trip to north London next week.
Injury Updates
Atletico confirmed their matchday squad on Wednesday afternoon with Ademola Lookman included, having sat out of the weekend game against Athletic Bilbao after picking up a knock in the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad. The former Charlton youngster underwent a late fitness test and has been passed fit.
However, Pablo Barrios, Jose Gimenez, and Nico Gonzalez have all been left out of the squad, ruling them out of tonight's game. Barrios has only recently returned from a muscle injury that saw the 22-year-old midfielder miss 16 games, including both quarter-final legs against Barcelona. Veteran defender Gimenez has also failed to recover from a muscle issue that has kept him out of the last four games.
Gonzalez is a fresh blow, with the winger suffering a thigh injury during Tuesday's training session. Marca reports that the injury will also rule the Argentine out of next week's second leg at the Emirates.
Julian Alvarez's Role
Atletico will be looking to Julian Alvarez to supply the firepower tonight against one of the clubs who could attempt to sign him this summer. The former Manchester City star has scored 20 goals in 52 appearances this term, saving some of his best work for the Champions League where he has scored nine in 13.
Speaking on Tuesday, Simeone acknowledged the growing interest in his striker. 'I am not in Julian Alvarez's head,' Simeone said. 'I just suppose it is normal. He is an extraordinary player. There is interest from Arsenal, Paris St Germain, Barcelona and other teams. But it is nothing we are concerned about.'
Arsenal's Injury Issues
Arsenal have injury problems of their own tonight, with Kai Havertz ruled out due to the groin injury he suffered against Newcastle United on Saturday. Jurrien Timber, meanwhile, has not recovered from a groin issue of his own.
