According to MARCA, Atletico Madrid defender Cristian Romero has been ruled out of their upcoming La Liga clash against Barcelona this weekend.
The Argentine international is dealing with a muscular problem which will keep him out of Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash in La Liga, handing Barça a major boost.
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Romero’s absence a blow for Atletico Madrid
Since arriving at the club from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, Romero has quickly established himself as a central figure in Diego Simeone’s plans at Atletico Madrid.
Despite making only eight appearances, six in La Liga and two in the Champions League, the 2022 World Cup winner has already become one of the leaders of the squad.
The 28-year-old had only recently recovered from an adductor issue and made it back to the squad for Atletico’s La Liga clash against Levante over the weekend.
Romero ruled out of Barcelona clash. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
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However, he did not get any minutes in that game and ended up missing the Rojiblancos’ UEFA Champions League defeat to Bayern Munich on Tuesday night.
Now, it is being claimed that Romero will not be back in time to face Barcelona later this week and will also be unavailable for Argentina in the upcoming international break.
Romero’s absence comes as a big blow for Atletico Madrid and a boost for Barcelona as he has become a key player for Simeone in a short time, thanks to his aggressive style of play and leadership.
Given the form that the Barcelona attacking unit has showcased this season, Simeone will have preferred to have his compatriot fit and available for the clash in which a win would have sent them into the international break as La Liga leaders.
Romero’s absence a blow for Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
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Injury issues for Barcelona as well
Barcelona go into the game against Atletico Madrid with several injury headaches of their own.
As confirmed earlier today, key midfielder Rodri has been ruled out of the contest due to a hamstring injury sustained in last night’s UEFA Champions League clash against Aston Villa.
Xavi Espart, Dani Olmo, and Roony Bardghji are also sidelined for the reigning champions.
Meanwhile, Jules Kounde remains a doubt as he has yet to resume training with the group. But there is some good news as Eric Garcia is expected to be available for the match.
Andreas Christensen could also make himself available for the contest depending on how he feels in training in the coming days.
Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: Sports.yahoo.com
