Cardoso's injury complicates Barrios' rest periods at Atlético
Johnny Cardoso, the American midfielder of Atlético de Madrid, suffers a low‑grade muscle injury in the thigh that will keep him out of the next match against Deportivo. The simultaneous absence of Koke further complicates the planned rest for Pablo Barrios.
Details of Cardoso's injury
The American left a match against Manchester United to recover from a gastroenteritis that prevented him from playing against Espanyol, and upon returning in Stuttgart he played 21 minutes before feeling a discomfort in the leg. The diagnosis in Germany revealed a low‑grade muscle injury in the thigh, which will prevent him from being available against Deportivo.
Last season, Cardoso also suffered several injuries that forced him to miss minutes, although he managed to cement his place in the starting eleven. Despite those setbacks, he was at his best before the new absence.
Midfield problems
Pablo Barrios has been substituted in the four recent matches, exiting in minutes 57, 60, 55 and 78, which makes his rest difficult. The absence of Koke, also a starting midfielder, worsens the lack of options in the pivot.
The young midfielders Mendoza and Vargas, signed in the winter transfer window, have been used as alternatives in the recent fixtures. Mendoza returned to play in matchday three and accumulated 23 minutes in the game against Cornellà. Vargas made his debut this season by replacing Barrios in Stuttgart.
Vargas to start against Bayern in the Champions League
Simeone also has the utility player Álvaro Llorente, who could be added to the double pivot. However, the defence is weakened by the absence of Cuti Romero.
On 3 November, Atlético will host Bayern Munich in the Champions League group stage at the Metropolitano. The Stuttgart‑suspended Hjulmand will not be able to feature in the second leg, as will Koke, who continues to work outside of training.
Simeone reminds that his players must always be ready, as happened to Dani Martínez, who went from having no minutes to starting against Espanyol. Mendoza, without playing since matchday three, reappeared in the final 23 minutes at Cornellà.
Given the lack of Barrios and Hjulmand, the Cholo will have to decide whether to keep Cardoso in the starting lineup or look for alternatives among the youngsters. Managing minutes will be key to avoid further trips to the medical staff.