Simeone Delays Goalkeeper Decision for Atletico Madrid's Champions League Clash Against Barcelona
Diego Simeone, head coach of Spanish club Atletico Madrid, has confirmed that he has not yet decided on the starting goalkeeper for the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barcelona.
The Argentine coach is weighing his options between veteran Jan Oblak, who recently resumed training after a month-long absence, and Juan Musso. Atletico Madrid aims to defend their 2-0 advantage from the first leg, which they secured at their opponent's stadium.
Speaking about team readiness, Simeone indicated that the final lineup decision is typically made just hours before kick-off. He stated, “I haven't submitted the lineup yet, and we usually do that at the hotel around 7 or 7:30 PM, so I still have time to make the decision.” He added that the return of Slovenian goalkeeper Oblak to training provides the coaching staff with greater flexibility in finalizing their choices before the match.
In addition to the uncertainty surrounding the goalkeeper position, Atletico Madrid faces defensive absences, including David Hancko and José María Giménez, who are continuing their recovery from injuries, and Marc Popel, who is suspended. The club hopes to leverage their victory last week at Camp Nou to secure passage to the next round of the continental competition.
