Atletico Madrid captain ‘relieved’ over Barcelona wonderkid’s absence – ‘It benefits us’

Atletico Madrid captain, Koke, shared his thoughts on the upcoming match against Barcelona, which could prove crucial in the race for the top of La Liga. 

The game on Saturday is significant, as it presents the Rojiblancos with a chance to head into the Christmas break as league leaders. 

A victory over Barcelona at their home ground would be a historic achievement for Atletico under manager Diego Simeone, as they have never managed to beat the Catalan side away before.

Importance of the match

Koke understands the importance of this match. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Koke highlighted the importance of the match, acknowledging that it would be a tough challenge. He mentioned that Barcelona is a strong team with top-level players, and such encounters are always exciting for everyone involved. 

For Atletico, it is not just another game; it is an opportunity to prove themselves and compete at the highest level. 

“It’s a totally different match. Barcelona is an opponent with some great players and these are high-level matches that we’re all really looking forward to playing,” he said as quoted by AS.

Who will be the favourite?

Koke played down the favouritism part. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

When asked about the potential outcome of the game, Koke stated that both teams are currently in a similar position, with equal points, and that matches like these are often decided by small details. 

He expressed hope that Atletico would come out on top but emphasized that it could go either way. The captain’s words reflect the competitive nature of the match and the belief that it will be a closely contested affair.

“We are currently in the same position, with the same points. These are matches that will be decided by small details. We will see which way it goes, which we hope will be Atleti,” he added.

Lamine Yamal’s absence

Koke also touched on the absence of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, a key player for the team. While Koke acknowledged that Yamal is one of the most unique talents in Barcelona’s squad, he admitted that his absence could work in Atletico’s favour. 

Lamine Yamal will miss the match due to injury. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

While he would prefer to face the best players, Koke understands that the situation presents an opportunity for Atletico to take advantage of Barcelona’s weakened lineup.

“He is one of the most different players that Barcelona has and it is a shame because you always want to play against the best. But it is a point in our favour because if you take away one of the best that, in theory, benefits us.”

Atletico’s winless streak

Finally, Koke expressed his desire to break the club’s winless streak against Barcelona at their home ground. 

Despite the historical difficulty, he remains hopeful that this Saturday could be the day they finally get the result they’ve been aiming for. 

For Atletico, this match is not just about the three points but also about making a statement in their ongoing quest for La Liga supremacy.

“I have never beaten Barcelona away from home and why not this Saturday? We have to break the streak and hopefully it can be this Saturday,” he concluded.