Atletico Madrid will face Manchester United in the Atletico Madrid vs Manchester United match without Koke after the death of his mother. A minute of silence will be observed before kick-off at the Metropolitano, while the club has also confirmed that the red-and-white flag is flying at half-mast.
Atletico's tribute plans
The club's statement said, “The most heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace.” It also said UEFA granted authorisation for “this heartfelt tribute in memory of the mother of our captain and our Juvenil A coach.”
Atletico said black armbands will be worn, and the tribute will extend to the club's Youth League match as well. The senior team and the youth side are both set to pause for a minute's silence.
The focus in Madrid is plainly on Koke's absence and the tribute around it. Atletico have won four straight La Liga matches before their 2-1 Champions League defeat to Liverpool, and they have taken 19 points from 8 league games at home this season.
United arrive with mixed domestic form
Manchester United arrive with only one league win in their first 6 Premier League matches, although they have started the Champions League with 3 points. Atletico, meanwhile, sit 26th in the Champions League table after one match.
The football will still matter once the game starts, but the evening has already been framed by the club's response to a personal loss. Koke left the team camp a few hours before the clash, and Atletico's captain will not be involved tonight at the Metropolitano.
Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 3 outlets. How we work →
