Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: Team news, Jude Bellingham update, TV details
Atletico Madrid will host arch rivals Real Madrid in a highly anticipated clash, with Real Madrid in good form.
The highly anticipated clash between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid at the Cívitas Metropolitano is set to reignite one of Spanish football's fiercest rivalries. Heading into the match, Real Madrid carries a wave of confidence after a strong start to their La Liga campaign, winning all five of their league games. They continued their winning streak with a late victory over Union Berlin in the Champions League.
On the other hand, Atletico Madrid has struggled to find their rhythm in the opening month of the season. This can be attributed to a lengthy injury list that has posed significant challenges for manager Diego Simeone. Despite securing a home win against Granada and a dominant victory over Rayo Vallecano, they were held to a draw by Real Betis and suffered a defeat against Valencia. In the Champions League, they managed a 1-1 draw against Lazio, thanks to a memorable late equalizer from home goalkeeper Ivan Provedel.
However, all attention now turns to the highly anticipated derby between the Madrid rivals in La Liga. Atletico will be missing several key players due to injuries, including Thomas Lemar, club captain Koke, Vitolo, and Reinaldo. Rodrigo De Paul is also a doubt after picking up a muscle injury during the international break, and Caglar Soynucu is not expected to return until next month. Additionally, Memphis Depay, Pablo Barrios, and Axel Witsel are all struggling with injuries.
Real Madrid has their own injury concerns, though not as severe as Atletico's. Goalkeeper Thibault Courtois and centre-back Eder Militao are definite absentees due to cruciate ligament injuries suffered during the summer. There are also doubts over Vinicius Junior and Dani Carvajal, who will be assessed before decisions are made regarding their involvement.
Both managers have expressed their excitement for the derby. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledges the intensity and quality of these games and believes that Atletico's loss to Valencia will not affect the outcome. Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone recognizes the strength of their opponents and the challenges they pose, but remains determined to find a way to overcome them.
One player to watch in this match is Real Madrid's young talent, Jude Bellingham. Since his move from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, he has been in outstanding form, scoring six goals and providing one assist in six games across all competitions. His latest goal came as a dramatic late winner against Union Berlin in the Champions League.
For those eager to watch the game, it will be broadcasted live on ITV4 as part of their agreement with La Liga TV. Coverage begins at 7.30pm on ITV4 and ITVX, with kick-off scheduled for 8pm.
Comments on Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid: Team news, Jude Bellingham update, TV details