As Atalanta prepare to host Real Madrid in a crucial Champions League clash, both sides are dealing with injury concerns while also welcoming back important players.
The Italian side will be without Gianluca Scamacca, Davide Zappacosta, and Juan Cuadrado for Tuesday’s match. However, they have reported no new injuries following their recent Serie A encounter with AC Milan.
Atalanta’s attacking trio has been in scintillating form this season. Mateo Retegui leads the charge with an impressive 14 goals in 21 appearances across all competitions. The 25-year-old striker is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested against Milan. Ademola Lookman has also been prolific, contributing 10 goals and five assists, while Charles De Ketelaere has added five goals and nine assists to the team’s tally. All three are likely to feature in Atalanta’s potent frontline at the Stadio di Bergamo.
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Meanwhile, Real Madrid have received a significant boost with the return of key players. Vinicius Junior, who has been sidelined for four matches due to a muscular issue, has made a quicker-than-expected recovery and is set to start. Jude Bellingham has overcome a fitness scare from the Girona match, while Rodrygo returns after missing Saturday’s league fixture.
However, Carlo Ancelotti’s side still faces some defensive challenges. Ferland Mendy is out with a muscular injury sustained against Girona, paving the way for Fran Garcia to start at left-back. The Madrid squad will also be without long-term absentees Eder Militao, David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Eduardo Camavinga.
**Atalanta:** Carnesecchi; Djimsiti, Hien, Kolasinac; Bellanova, De Roon, Ederson, Ruggeri; De Ketelaere, Retegui, Lookman
**Real Madrid:** Courtois; Vazquez, Tchouameni, Rudiger, F Garcia; Valverde, Bellingham, Modric; Rodrygo, Mbappe, Vinicius