Atletico Madrid Await Results as Cristian Romero Undergoes Medical Tests

Atletico Madrid are facing an anxious wait over the fitness of Cristian Romero. The Argentine center-back is currently undergoing medical evaluations following an adductor issue that surfaced during the club's recent victory at the RCDE Stadium. The defender, who has become a vital part of the team since his arrival, is being assessed to see if he has suffered a significant muscular injury or simply muscle fatigue.

The concern began during the second half of the match against Espanyol. In the 60th minute, immediately after winning a defensive challenge, Romero signaled to the bench that he needed to be replaced. He eventually left the pitch in the 67th minute, with Mendoza coming on as his substitute. Upon the team's return to Madrid, the medical staff scheduled more detailed examinations, including an MRI, to get a clear picture of the damage.

Despite the injury worry, Diego Simeone’s squad returned to the training pitch on Sunday morning. The session was held in Majadahonda, focusing on preparation for the upcoming midweek European fixture. While the starters from the Espanyol game worked on recovery in the gym, a separate group took to the field for more intensive work. This group, led by Baena, included players like Lookman, Sorloth, and Le Normand.

Champions League Preparations

The timing of the injury is particularly difficult for the Spanish side. Atletico are currently sitting as the primary challengers to Barcelona at the top of the La Liga table, but their focus must now shift to the Champions League. The team is scheduled to travel to Germany on Monday morning to face Stuttgart, with a training session planned at the match venue later that evening.

Romero was not the only notable absentee from the main group session. Club captain Koke remains sidelined as he recovers from a muscular problem that kept him out of the Espanyol game. Additionally, Cardoso remained in the gym for individual work. Simeone confirmed after the recent match that Romero’s substitution was at the player's own request due to the discomfort he felt on the pitch.