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Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid Lineups: Predicted XI, Injuries & Tactical Preview

You can hear the buzz. The streets of Madrid are alive. Because when Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid rolls around, it’s more than just a game. It’s history, rivalry, bragging rights. Whoever nails the starting XI will give their fans hope.

This season’s clash feels extra heavy. Real are riding high, energized by Jude Bellingham’s surge. Atlético’s response? Grit, cohesion, and pure fight. Who steps out onto the pitch first could set the tone.

Atlético Madrid – Who’s Likely to Start

Diego Simeone trusts his system. He doesn’t tinker for the sake of change. Expect:

Formation: 3‑5‑2

  • Jan Oblak

  • Stefan Savić, José María Giménez, Mario Hermoso

  • Nahuel Molina, Samuel Lino

  • Koke, Rodrigo De Paul, Saúl Ñíguez

  • Antoine Griezmann, Álvaro Morata

Griezmann may drop deeper to pull strings. Morata will stretch the defense with his runs. Molina and Lino will have tough jobs both attacking and tracking back. Koke—steady, smart—will try to control the pace.

Real Madrid – Likely Setup

Carlo Ancelotti is mixing things up. The squad is stronger, more dynamic. His midfield stars are making the difference. Here’s what I expect:

Formation: 4‑4‑2 Diamond

  • Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal

  • Carvajal, Rüdiger, Alaba, Mendy as the back four

  • Tchouaméni (anchor), Camavinga, Valverde

  • Jude Bellingham in the no.10 role

  • Vinícius Jr and Rodrygo up front

Bellingham is no longer just a midfielder. He’s scoring and creating. With key defenders missing, the backline has its challenges. Vini and Rodrygo will look to cause havoc on the flanks.

Missing Players & Fitness Concerns

Both sides have holes:

Atlético Injuries:

  • Memphis Depay — likely out with a muscle issue

  • Thomas Lemar — long-term absence

  • Reinildo — might feature but not 100%

Real Madrid Injuries:

  • Thibaut Courtois — ACL, out for season

  • Éder Militão — recovering still

  • Arda Güler — likely not ready for a start

  • Luka Modrić — possibly on the bench

Tactical Battle: Strategies to Watch

This won’t be laissez-faire football. Each side will play its strength.

  • Atlético: Low block, compact midfield, counter-attacks. They’ll look to break quickly when Real overcommit.

  • Real: Press high, control possession, rotate their midfield, and try to create overloads in dangerous zones.

The match could come down to who adapts fastest when plans don’t work.

Impact Substitutes

These players might tilt things late:

  • Atlético: Ángel Correa for energy, Barrios for fresh legs, Azpilicueta for defensive solidity

  • Real Madrid: Joselu as a target, Kroos for control, Brahim Díaz for trickery

Recent Derby Trends

  • In their last five: Real have won three, Atlético one, one draw.

  • But derbies flip form on its head. Underdogs shine. Emotions overtake logic.

Match Details & Prediction

  • Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025

  • Kickoff: 9:00 PM CET

  • Stadium: Wanda Metropolitano

  • Broadcast: ESPN+, DAZN, La Liga channels

Prediction: A tight game. My guess is 1‑1 draw. Atleti will punch hard. Real will press. Neither side gives in.

FAQs – Atlético Madrid vs Real Madrid lineups

When do teams announce lineups?
Usually about one hour before kickoff.

Is Bellingham likely to start?
Almost certain, if fit — he’s central to Real’s plans.

Does Griezmann still drive Atlético’s play?
Yes. His movement, vision, and link play are critical in this setup.

More Inspiration & References

If you love stories of resilience — not just in football — check out Jalen Hurts’s Path.
For official updates, always refer to the La Liga website.

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