📝No Cardozo: Atlético Madrid announce squad for Betis clash

This Sunday, Real Betis returns to the capital to face Atlético de Madrid in Matchday 23 of LaLiga EA Sports. The Verdiblancos arrive with "pent-up anger" after the recent thrashing they suffered against Los Colchoneros in the Copa del Rey, seeking revenge that would allow them to consolidate their fifth place in the table and close the gap with the Champions League spots.

Rotations and absences in Pellegrini's lineup

Manuel Pellegrini is forced to "shake things up" due to fatigue and an overcrowded infirmary. Betis will be without key players such as Isco, Lo Celso, and Chimy Ávila. The main novelty will be the starting debut of the recently signed Álvaro Fidalgo, who will take on the playmaker role after the Rosario midfielder was dropped from the European squad list. In goal, Valles is expected to return, while the young academy player Rodrigo Marina emerges as an alternative up front given the offensive absences.

Atlético, between LaLiga and the Cup

For their part, Diego Simeone's team, currently third with 45 points, is looking to recapture the brilliance shown in the cup tournament. However, "Cholo" is also managing physical loads with an eye on the semifinals against Barça. With the confirmed absence of Pablo Barrios, the Argentine coach will freshen up the starting eleven with the return of Giménez in defense and Julián Álvarez leading the attack in place of Griezmann. It will be a real test for both sides before European competitions resume in March.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.