Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal – Predicted lineup and team news

Atletico Madrid vs Arsenal – Predicted lineup and team news

Atletico Madrid welcome Arsenal to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Wednesday for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final clash.

Diego Simeone’s side will be looking for a much better showing this time after suffering a heavy 4-0 defeat to Arsenal earlier in the group stage.

Atletico’s recent form has been inconsistent, with only two wins from their last nine games. They did manage a 3-2 win against Athletic Club recently, but defensive issues remain a concern. Their Champions League knockout matches this season have been high-scoring, averaging 4.7 goals per game.

Despite those problems at the back, they have been impressive going forward, scoring a club record 34 goals in this campaign. At home, they are especially strong, having never lost a Champions League knockout match to an English team at the Metropolitano.

Atletico Madrid team news

Simeone is dealing with some key absences in midfield and defence. Pablo Barrios is expected to miss both legs due to a hamstring injury, while José María Giménez is still unavailable at the back.

There is some positive news in attack, with Julian Alvarez likely to return to the starting lineup after being rested in the last match.

Late decisions will be made on Ademola Lookman and David Hancko, who are both being assessed ahead of the game.

Jan Oblak is set to start in goal, with joining the attack. and are expected to feature in midfield, while Clement Lenglet will partner either or in central defence.