Atlético de Madrid denies Koke Champions League vs Manchester United

Inside the Metropolitano, the stands are preparing for a minute of silence before kickoff of the Champions League match scheduled for tonight. Atlético de Madrid captain Koke will not take the field, grieving the loss of his mother, Ana Merodio Borja.

Official announcement and club support

Atlético de Madrid announced that Koke will miss the match against Manchester United. The Madrid club immediately expressed its support for the Spanish midfielder and his family, emphasizing that the sporting aspect takes a back seat in these painful circumstances.

No further details about Koke's availability for upcoming fixtures have been released. The club relayed the information, confirming the captain's absence for this European match.

Sporting consequences

Deprived of its leader, Atlético will have to line up without one of its most influential figures, who wears the armband and holds a central role in the dressing room. The coaching staff will need to revise its tactical plans, with no detail on the replacement who will inherit the armband.

The match against Manchester United will therefore take place without Koke, whose role in midfield was essential. The team will need to adapt quickly to face the Red Devils in a particular context.

Before kickoff, a minute of silence will be observed at the Metropolitano in memory of Ana Merodio Borja. Players, members of both clubs and the public will gather to pay tribute to the captain's mother.

The club reiterated that Koke can stay with his family during this period of mourning, while his teammates will contest the European fixture in an atmosphere of respect.