LaLiga4 hours ago1 minute read

Simeone confirms Álvarez is ready to face Barcelona in top clash

Julián Álvarez prepares to face Barcelona after a summer transfer saga, with Atlético Madrid aiming to overtake the league leaders this weekend.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Simeone backs Álvarez against summer suitors

Diego Simeone says Julián Álvarez is ready to take on Barcelona this Sunday. The 26 year old forward tried to leave Atlético Madrid in the summer, with his main goal being a move to Barcelona.

Atlético rejected an offer of 100 million euros, equal to 111.5 million dollars, to keep him from joining a title rival. Fans jeered Álvarez early in the season, but he has since apologised. He has now started the last four matches for Atlético and scored twice.

Barça manager Hansi Flick called Álvarez a fantastic player in his press conference, while noting that the forward belongs to Atlético.

Barça squad news and Gordon's form

Flick has his own summer signing to focus on. Anthony Gordon has three goals and four assists this season for Barcelona, forming part of an attack with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. Flick agreed with Gordon's recent comments that the winger could be more selfish in one on one situations.

Defenders Eric García and Andreas Christensen are returning to the Barcelona squad. Flick must choose between García and youngster Brian Fariñas at right back.

In midfield, Rodri is out with a hamstring injury. Either Frenkie de Jong or Marc Bernal will take his place.

Table standings and Atlético fitness

Atlético have midfielder Johnny Cardoso back available, though defender Cuti Romero remains out with an injury.

Barcelona lead LaLiga with 30 points from 11 games. Atlético sit just two points behind on 28 points. A victory for Atlético would move them to the top of the table before the international break.

Last season, Barcelona won both league meetings on their way to the title. However, Atlético knocked Flick's side out of both the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

What it means for the next game

Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona (LaLiga, Sun, 08 Nov): Atlético Madrid win 28%, draw 23%, Barcelona win 50%; expected goals 1.47 to 2.03. Our safest pick: Barcelona or Draw.