Atlético Madrid Confirms Cardozo Injury, Rules Him Out of Champions League Clash Against Barcelona

Spanish club Atletico Madrid has confirmed that American midfielder Johnny Cardoso sustained a muscle injury, following medical examinations conducted in Madrid. The new results contradict initial tests performed in the United States, which had only diagnosed a minor strain. This injury will sideline the player for the team's upcoming fixtures during a pivotal phase of the season.

In its medical report, Atletico Madrid stated that the player is suffering from a "thigh injury." This differs from the initial examination, which had previously indicated an "adductor muscle strain."

This injury comes at a sensitive time, especially as Cardoso had recently managed to secure a regular starting position in the team's lineup during his debut season with the Madrid club, after overcoming a series of physical issues he had faced earlier.

Cardoso will join the list of players unavailable for the Champions League first-leg match against Barcelona at Camp Nou. The club will also be without midfielders Barrios and Mendoza, who are sidelined for similar reasons. Furthermore, in addition to his current injury, Cardoso is serving a suspension that will prevent him from participating in next Saturday's match, leaving the coaching staff with limited options in the midfield for the upcoming fixtures.