Atlético de Madrid vs Elche: Simeone has a major absence and will change the lineup in LaLiga
Atlético de Madrid will have to reorganize their midfield for the second round of LaLiga 2025/26. Diego Simeone confirmed that new signing Álex Baena is out after suffering a thigh injury in training, adding to the list of absences for Saturday’s (23) match against Elche.
Match Information
- Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
- Time: 2:30 pm (Brasília)
- Stadium: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid
- Competition: LaLiga – Round 2
- Broadcast: Disney+ (streaming)
Atlético de Madrid’s Absences and Probable Lineup
Baena’s injury is a setback for Simeone, who is also still without José Giménez. Although the Uruguayan defender is back in training after recovering from injury in the Club World Cup, he is expected to be rested for another week.
Atlético’s likely XI: Oblak; Llorente, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri; Simeone, Johnny, Barrios; Thiago Almada, Julián Álvarez, Sorloth.
Elche’s Situation
Elche also arrive weakened in attack. Yago Santiago is sidelined with a knee ligament injury, and Adam Boayar is out with physical problems. Josán Fernández remains doubtful.
Elche’s likely XI: Dituro; Núñez, Affengruber, Bigas, Petrot; Febas, Aguado, Neto; Valera, Rodríguez, Mendonza.
Recent History
The last time the teams met was in the Copa del Rey round of 16, when Atlético crushed Elche 4-0 with goals from Sorloth (2), Riquelme, and Julián Álvarez.
Simeone Calls for Calm
After the opening defeat to Espanyol, Simeone avoided panic and highlighted the team’s attitude:
“Defensive mistakes are normal at the start of the season. The result hurts us, but it will help us grow. I’ll keep the positives and work on the rest.”
Atlético now look to bounce back at home and secure their first LaLiga victory of the season.
