Atletico Madrid captain, Koke has reportedly admitted that the absence of Lamine Yamal in their clash against Barcelona will be a big boost for them.
Saturday’s match is important because it gives the Rojiblancos an opportunity to lead the league going into the Christmas break.
Under manager Diego Simeone, Atletico would make history if they defeated Barcelona at home, as they have never beaten the Catalan team away from home.
Koke emphasized the significance of the game while admitting it would be difficult. Barcelona is a formidable club with elite players, he said, and these matches are always thrilling for everyone involved.
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For Atletico, it’s more than simply a game; it’s a chance to establish themselves and compete at the top of their game.
“It’s a totally different match. Barcelona is an opponent with some great players and these are high-level matches that we’re all really looking forward to playing,” he said as quoted by AS and reported by Barca Universal.
“We are currently in the same position, with the same points. These are matches that will be decided by small details. We will see which way it goes, which we hope will be Atleti,” he added.
Koke also discussed the absence of Yamal, a vital member of Barcelona’s squad.
“He is one of the most different players that Barcelona has and it is a shame because you always want to play against the best. But it is a point in our favour because if you take away one of the best that, in theory, benefits us.”
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