Atlético Madrid Recover Johnny Cardoso Ahead of Barcelona Clash
Diego Simeone has received encouraging news ahead of one of the most important matches of the season. Johnny Cardoso has returned to training and could make his comeback against Barcelona.
Atlético Madrid are beginning to recover important players just when they need them most. Following their defeat to Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League, the Spanish side received a major boost ahead of Sunday's meeting with Barcelona.
Johnny Cardoso returned to full-team training on Thursday, November 5, taking an important step in his recovery and increasing his chances of being available for the match at the Metropolitano.
The American midfielder had been sidelined with a low-grade thigh muscle injury sustained during the European encounter against Stuttgart.
The problem forced him to miss Atlético's last three matches against Deportivo La Coruña, Levante, and Bayern Munich.
However, after several days of individual recovery work, Cardoso completed a more intense session alongside the players who did not start the European fixture.
His return does not guarantee a place in the starting lineup, but it provides another valuable option for Diego Simeone.
Simeone Regains Options in Midfield
Cardoso's availability could influence the Argentine manager's tactical plans.
Before his injury, the American had begun establishing himself as an important figure thanks to his ball-winning ability, passing distribution, and capacity to provide balance in midfield.
His impressive performances even allowed him to challenge experienced players such as Koke and Morten Hjulmand for a starting position.
Now, the situation looks considerably more encouraging for the coaching staff.
Koke returned against Bayern Munich after recovering from injury, while Hjulmand will also be available after serving his European suspension.
They are joined by Pablo Barrios, who has eased concerns about his fitness after being seen with ice and a bandage around his ankle following the Champions League match.
The academy graduate trained normally on Thursday and is not expected to have any problems facing the Catalan side.
With these options available, Simeone has regained depth in a crucial area as Atlético prepare to compete for midfield control against Hansi Flick's team.
Cuti Romero Ruled Out Against Barcelona
Not all the news was positive for Atlético Madrid.
Cristian Romero continues to recover from a muscular problem in his adductor and will be unavailable for Sunday's encounter.
The Argentine defender had returned to the squad against Levante but did not play before being ruled out again for the match against Bayern Munich.
His absence will force Simeone to reorganize his defense once more against one of the most dangerous attacking sides in the competition.
Sunday's November 8 fixture, part of Matchday 12 in LaLiga, could have major implications in the race for first place.
Atlético Madrid enter the encounter following seven consecutive domestic league victories, while Barcelona will be determined to defend their position at the top of the standings.
In that context, recovering Johnny Cardoso could prove crucial. His return provides greater balance, tactical flexibility, and another important option for a match that could shape the direction of both teams' seasons.
Key Takeaways
- Johnny Cardoso has returned to Atlético Madrid training after recovering from a muscle injury and could face Barcelona.
- Pablo Barrios, Koke, and Morten Hjulmand are also available, giving Diego Simeone more midfield options.
- Cristian Romero will miss Sunday's match because of his ongoing muscular problems.
João Lucas de Souza Cardoso
Club Atlético de Madrid
