Predicted Lineups for Atletico Madrid vs. Real Madrid: Two Selection Dilemmas as Bellingham Returns
Atletico Madrid have a historic opportunity on Wednesday night as they host Real Madrid at the Metropolitano for the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 clash. To eliminate their city rivals from European competition for the first time ever, they must overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit.
Both managers are expected to keep their lineups largely unchanged, with the biggest news being Jude Bellingham’s return from suspension.
Atletico Madrid’s Selection Dilemmas
According to Diario AS, Diego Simeone is undecided on two key positions:
- Whether to continue with Clément Lenglet in defense or replace him with Robin Le Normand
- Whether to start Samuel Lino on the left or opt for Conor Gallagher
Lenglet, who missed Atletico’s 2-1 loss to Getafe due to discomfort, is expected to recover in time. Meanwhile, Rodrigo de Paul, who was substituted at halftime in that match, is also set to start. Captain Koke Resurrección will be fit enough for the bench, providing Simeone with an experienced alternative to Pablo Barrios and De Paul.
Marca suggests that Simeone may stick with the same starting XI from the first leg.
Real Madrid’s Lineup Decisions
Bellingham is expected to replace Brahim Diaz, despite the latter’s outstanding performance in the first leg. Carlo Ancelotti has insisted that Luka Modric is fit enough to start twice in four days, but Eduardo Camavinga is still likely to be preferred alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni in midfield.
Suspension Risks
Five Real Madrid players could miss the first leg of the quarter-finals if booked:
- Luka Modric
- Aurélien Tchouaméni
- Endrick Felipe
- Antonio Rüdiger
For Atletico, Jose María Giménez and Ángel Correa must also be cautious.
With high stakes and intense rivalry, this Champions League derby promises to be a thriller at the Metropolitano.
