Rival watch: Atletico Madrid will be without two key players vs Real Madrid | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid are set to face Real Madrid in the upcoming Madrid derby, but Diego Simeone’s side will be without two key players, reports MARCA.

Cesar Azpilicueta, a senior defender, and Pablo Barrios, a young and talented attacking midfielder, will not be available for the crucial clash.

While this news might offer some relief for Real Madrid, it is still a big blow for Atletico, who have been relying on both players for their contributions this season.

Why are they unavailable?

Barrios, who has been impressive for Atletico, sustained an injury while representing Spain’s U-21 team during international duty.

Since then, he has been working hard to return to full fitness, but despite making progress by beginning light training, he is still unavailable.

His absence has already seen him miss matches against Valencia, RB Leipzig, Rayo Vallecano, and Celta Vigo, with the Madrid derby added to that growing list. His creativity and energy in the midfield will be sorely missed by Simeone’s side.

Pablo Barrios will not be available for the Madrid derby. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

On the other hand, Azpilicueta’s injury is a more recent setback. During Atletico’s recent game against Rayo Vallecano, the experienced defender felt a sharp pain in his left leg after an awkward landing from a header.

The pain forced him to leave the pitch just before half-time, and it is now confirmed that he has a muscle injury. Losing such a seasoned player at this stage of the season is a major concern for Atletico, as his leadership at the back has been invaluable.

Replacing him will be a challenge for Simeone, especially in such an important match against their city rivals.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, have injury concerns of their own, with Kylian Mbappe ruled out after picking up a knock in their recent match against Alaves.

However, Madrid have the good news of Eduardo Camavinga’s return, and he is expected to feature in the derby. Despite the absence of their star forward, Real Madrid still possess enough depth to pose a significant challenge to Atletico.