Football player in Atlético de Madrid uniform gesturing with his hands and the Real Madrid logo in the background.

Rodrigo De Paul reveals if he will play against Real Madrid: Antoine Griezmann pending

Simeone already knows the situation of the Argentine midfielder

Rodrigo De Paul, after missing the match against Rayo Vallecano, is working to get back into the Atlético de Madrid starting XI. The Argentine will be available for the clash against Celta de Vigo on Thursday, which indicates that he could be fully fit for Sunday's game against Real Madrid. His return is excellent news for Simeone, who needs the midfielder at his best in a key week.

De Paul's discomfort

The coaching staff decided not to risk De Paul against Rayo due to his recent fatigue after playing with the Argentine national team and in the match against Valencia. The strategy was to give him a rest to avoid muscle injuries, an approach that seems to have yielded results, as the midfielder is recovered and ready to play.

A soccer player with blond hair and tattoos on his arms, wearing a red and blue jersey and a pink bandage on his wrist, smiles as he adjusts a white bib.
De Paul this season | Europa Press

De Paul's participation is essential for Atlético, who face a demanding schedule and need quality rotations. With the absences due to injury and the effort that Simeone demands in the midfield, having players like De Paul is fundamental to maintaining balance in the team. Antoine Griezmann, the undisputed leader of the rojiblanco attack, is also eagerly awaiting the return of his teammate, since together they can give greater fluidity to the offensive game.

Simeone is clear that De Paul's recovery will be key for the derby against Real Madrid. With a busy schedule and high-level rivals, the Argentine's return to the starting lineup strengthens the midfield and gives it greater solidity.

Lemar could be available

In addition, the return of other players such as Thomas Lemar, who has also started training with the team after his physical problems, gives the red-and-white team a break. Although Lemar is not yet 100% fit, his presence in training is already a positive sign for Atlético de Madrid.

A man lifting weights with a barbell in a gym, wearing an Atlético de Madrid tank top.
Lemar in the gym | Atlético de Madrid

The match against Celta will serve as a test for De Paul and other players who are looking for minutes and playing rhythm before the big match against Real Madrid. Simeone hopes to have his best players available for this crucial match, and De Paul's return is one of the best pieces of news he has received in recent weeks.