Atlético Madrid’s starting XI against Inter Milan in Champions League

Diego Simeone and his players are in Italy for the round of 16 first leg, with Morata and Marcos Llorente looking to shine at the San Siro.

The Inter Milan-Atlético Madrid match is one of the highlights of the season for the Atleti family, if not the most important. Diego Simeone is preparing his tactics and is expected to continue with the innovative experiment he conducted against Las Palmas: Llorente will lead the attack. Against the islanders, he scored two goals from two shots and provided multiple solutions. For the Champions League round of 16 first leg, however, he will most likely be accompanied by Griezmann – who didn’t play a single minute at the weekend – instead of Correa.

Llorente brings speed, off-the-ball movement, and a lot of work in pressuring and assisting. He is crucial if the game becomes difficult and there’s a need to defend and counterattack swiftly. Griezmann will have to spearhead those attacks, being the focal point around which Atletico’s offensive football revolves. Behind them, Koke and De Paul seem indispensable. Saúl will be the third in midfield: crucial in aerial play and strengthening the team against Inter’s assaults. Barrios and Vermeeren will remain on the bench, waiting for their chance.

In defense, there will also be some adjustments and a surprise addition. The right flank should be manned by Nahuel and, unexpectedly, Reinildo will take the left. Simeone reinforces the wing to contain Darmian. The center-backs will be Witsel, Giménez, and Hermoso, although Savic participated as a starter in some parts of the last training session. The Uruguayan will be crucial when Inter sends crosses into the box.

With this starting eleven, Cholo keeps a few cards up his sleeve to shake up the