Real Madrid vs. Atlético Madrid: Injury updates ahead of the Champions League final
Could all of the in-doubt players be fit on Saturday?
Alex Livesey
Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid have both been battling injuries in the run-up to the Champions League final, but it appears that they might both be at close to full strength for the game. Earlier in the week, Diego Costa and Pepe were all but ruled out entirely, but they've apparently made miraculous recoveries and will face fitness tests before the match to see if they're able to play.
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Costa was apparently impressive in training on Friday and is not only in contention to make the 18-man squad, but to start. If he is fully fit and can start, he’ll be a massive boost to Diego Simeone’s side. And even if he’s only fit to make the bench, he’ll still be a great option.
There are also doubts about the fitness of Arda Turan, but like Costa, he did train on Friday. Expect to see him in Atléti’s starting XI.
Real Madrid have fitness issues of their own, and got mixed results late in the week when their stars tried to train. Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale have been carrying knocks, but both appear completely ready to go and there's little doubt that they'll start the match. However, Pepe and Karim Benzema look to be game-time decisions for Carlo Ancelotti.
Most are expecting both Benzema and Pepe to at least make the 18-man squad, if not start, but Ancelotti has said they are both doubts. Whether or not he’s just playing mind games remains to be seen.
Ultimately, we should see all four of the seriously in-doubt players suit up for their respective teams on Saturday, which is good for the neutrals. Everyone wants to see the best players play in the Champions League final, and it appears that we’ll get that opportunity.
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