Atletico Madrid’s manager, Diego Simeone, provided an update ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes Liga clash against Barcelona, confirming that the team will not have any of their injured players available. However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon for their upcoming Champions League first leg at Camp Nou next week.
In a press conference held Friday, Simeone downplayed the significance of the tactical showdown between himself and Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick. “Football is about the players, not the coaches,” he noted. “Barcelona has maintained a particular style since their coach’s arrival, characterized by a high defensive line and attacking positioning aimed at winning duels. Our approach, which we have honed over the past 14 years, will continue to focus on competing against them.”
### Atletico Without Five Key Players
Simeone confirmed that Rodrigo Mendoza, Pablo Barrios, Jan Oblak, Marc Pubill, and Johnny Cardoso will all be sidelined for the match against the Catalan giants. He remains optimistic about their recovery: “All the injured players are progressing well. Jan will train with the group on Monday, as will Mendoza. Pablo is doing very well, and Pubill is diligently training to offer us his help when the time comes.”
🚨🇦🇷 BREAKING – Diego Simeone: “Rodrigo Mendoza will be back in training on Monday. Pablo [Barrios] is doing very well, and Pubill is progressing well to help us when needed.” pic.twitter.com/MbzFLhiHkb
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) April 3, 2026
### Midfield Challenges Ahead
Mendoza’s absence typically wouldn’t carry such weight; however, with Cardoso and Marcos Llorente both suspended, and Barrios out as well, Los Rojiblancos find themselves thin in midfield. Koke Resurreccion and Obed Vargas stand as the only natural options remaining in that pivotal area of the pitch. Simeone may look to adapt his strategy with alternative options like Alex Baena or Thiago Almada.
Llorente will be eligible to play again for their European fixtures, but Cardoso’s injury will rule him out. The silver lining lies in the potential return of Oblak, Mendoza, and possibly Pubill in time for the second leg next week. Additionally, Alexander Sorloth, who returned from international duty nursing a head wound, appears fit to participate this weekend.
As Atletico prepares to face Barcelona, the team’s resilience and tactical adaptability will be put to the test, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter.
