Atlético Madrid have been dealt a major double injury blow ahead of their Champions League opener against Liverpool on Wednesday.
Strikers Julian Álvarez and midfielder Johnny Cardoso have both been ruled out of the clash.
🚨🚫 Julián Álvarez and Johnny Cardoso, out of Atlético Madrid squad for Liverpool game due to injury. pic.twitter.com/mXDu0yvvqE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 16, 2025
The news is a major setback for the Spanish side, who are already dealing with a number of injury problems in their squad.
The absence of the two players will put a lot of pressure on manager Diego Simeone's side, as they travel to Anfield for what is arguably their most difficult fixture in the league phase this season.
Álvarez's injury is a major blow for his side.
The forward was a key part of Atlético's attack last season, scoring seven goals in 10 Champions League games.
His absence, along with the other four players who are ruled out, will be a major challenge for the Spanish side as they look to get their Champions League campaign off to a good start.
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The details of the two injuries
Julian Álvarez suffered a knee injury during Atlético's 2-0 victory over Villarreal on Saturday.
The Argentine forward, who assisted Pablo Barrios for the opening goal, was substituted at half-time and has not trained with the group since.
The injury is not considered serious, but it is enough to keep him out of the Champions League opener.
Meanwhile, Johnny Cardoso is also a late withdrawal, due to a sprained left ankle sustained in training on Monday.
Cardoso had been testing as a starter in midfield, which means Simeone will have to change his intended line-up.
The injury is not considered serious, but it will keep him sidelined for the immediate fixtures.
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The impact of the two absences on the match
The absence of Julian Álvarez and Johnny Cardoso will have a major impact on the game.
Álvarez was a key part of Atlético's attack, and his goalscoring ability will be sorely missed.
Cardoso was also set to start, and his ability to control the midfield will be a major blow for his side.
The two absences will be a major boost for Liverpool.
The Premier League champions will be looking to take advantage of the situation and get their Champions League campaign off to a good start.
The match is a must-win for Liverpool, and the absence of two key players will make their job much easier.
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