Elche aims to level Atlético’s success at Martínez Valero
Elche hosts Atletico Madrid this Sunday with real intent to mirror the visitors’ recent results. The plan centers on fielding a strong lineup and using home support to gain a positive result at the Martínez Valero stadium at 16:15 local time. Reports from Efe indicate the squad is focused on finishing the season on a high note and building momentum for upcoming fixtures.
The squad’s captain and key forward, Ángel Correa, has shown readiness after a minor ankle sprain and is ready to contribute if selected. In recent training sessions, Correa demonstrated his sharpness, and coach Diego Simeone has tested alternatives to Sergio Reguilón in the left-back position, keeping tactical flexibility on the table for the Elche clash.
Back to group: Correa’s return amid a congested fixture list
The Argentine striker, who sustained a joint injury in the latest league match against Cádiz, has rejoined the main squad. His return comes as Atletí continues to manage a long list of injuries that have impacted the squad this season.
Several players remain unavailable for selection. Jan Oblak continues treatment for a cervical issue with no definite return window, while Memphis Depay and Marcos Llorente are sidelined by muscle problems. Reinildo Mandava is out for the season after ACL damage to his right knee, Stefan Savić is coping with a broken toe, and Saúl Ñíguez has nasal injuries. Geoffrey Kondogbia is also recovering due to personal reasons, affecting squad depth for the remaining fixtures.
Nice, outside the group: updates on squad health and lineup
Another player did not train with the main group, remaining on the sidelines during a Wednesday session. There have been no new injuries reported, and the player is expected to be available for the upcoming match at the Martínez Valero stadium.
The coach has not ruled out changes in the defense, and Reguilón’s role remains a topic of discussion as he could feature in the starting XI if he recovers in time. The defensive setup may shift, but the overall tactical plan remains focused on balance between defense and attack.
The backline likely to be deployed includes a left-back option who has seen limited action recently, Nahuel Molina on the right, with Axel Witsel and José María Giménez anchoring the central defense. In midfield, a trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Koke Resurrección, and Thomas Lemar could line up, while the forward line may feature Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata, and Yannick Carrasco in a potent attacking trio for the Elche test.
Elche will be looking to capitalize on home soil and push Atlético to the limit, aiming to disrupt the visitors’ rhythm and seize any chance to climb back into the fight for crucial points as the season progresses.