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Although his action was limited, left back Filipe Luís has returned to training. The Brazilian is doubtful for Saturday’s matchup with Las Palmas, but this is a positive sign. We can hope for his return when we visit Valencia after the upcoming international window.
- Griezmann suspended two matches. No one is surprised.
One person who will not be joining the team in two weeks against Valencia is Antoine Griezmann. As expected, the Frenchman has received a two match ban for comments made towards the referee in Atlético Madrid’s season opener. As such he is set to return to league play for the home opener against Málaga on Sept. 16.
- Racing Club play hardball on Martínez transfer
According to reports, Argentine side Racing Club have turned down a €12 million bid for young striker Lautaro Martínez. Racing reportedly value the player at €20 million and wish to retain his services for the current season, including their 2018 Copa Libertadores campaign that will begin in January.
Given the registration ban, it is likely that Atlético would be amendable to a loan situation, but the duration of that loan may be sticking point. It will be interesting to see how this one develops, as Martínez could be a rising star in the Argentina national team setup.
- Champions League group stage fixture list set
In case you missed it, the draw for the UEFA Champions League group stage took place yesterday. Atlético were drawn against Chelsea (how could they not be?), AS Roma, and Azerbaijani club Qarabağ FK.
Now the full fixture list has been released. Atleti will open their campaign away to Roma on Sept. 12, an important fixture in the context of this group. A positive result there will put us in a good position to secure a top two finish.
The remaining schedule is as follows:
Home versus Chelsea on Sept. 27
Away to Qarabağ on Oct. 18
Home versus Qarabağ on Oct. 31
Home versus Roma on Nov. 22
Away to Chelsea on Dec. 5
That final match should be an exciting and decisive finish to the group.
- What do you think of Atleti’s Champions League schedule?
Personally, I’m excited that our two toughest fixtures bookend the schedule. Let us know your thoughts below.