Atlético Sharpens Aim at Cerro del Espino
Atlético de Madrid is already hard at work preparing for the exciting Copa del Rey clash against FC Barcelona. The team trained at Cerro del Espino with their sights set on the first leg, where they will be looking for a favorable result.
Simeone had to contend with the confirmed absence of Koke, who is recovering from his injury. This sensitive absence was joined by Azpilicueta, who has been suffering from physical discomfort since the match against Valencia.
We will have to wait for the squad announcement to find out if the defender will be able to join the team in Barcelona. The good news is the return of Pablo Barrios, who trained completely normally after serving his suspension.
His return to the team brings freshness and options to the midfield. Although the good performance of Llorente and De Paul in the last league game opens the debate about his starting position. In the training session, Simeone divided the group. The players who accumulated more than 45 minutes in the last match performed lighter work, while the rest of the squad demanded the maximum with technical and physical circuits. The team is focused and eager to face this important cup challenge.
