Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez is reportedly ready to play in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal on Tuesday night, though his fitness level remains uncertain. The team held a training session at the Emirates Stadium on Monday, where Alvarez initially trained separately before joining the rest of the squad.
According to Diario AS, Alvarez began the session with individual runs before rejoining his teammates. The Argentine international sustained an ankle twist during the first leg of the tie. He missed Atletico’s 2-0 victory over Valencia on Saturday, a match where Diego Simeone significantly rotated the squad.
Julian Alvarez Willing to Take Pain-Killing Injection
AS notes that Alvarez is not at full fitness but is eager to play, a sentiment echoed by MD. Marca further reports that Alvarez is prepared to accept a pain-killing injection to feature in the semi-final against Arsenal, with the tie currently balanced at 1-1. Despite the upcoming World Cup, Alvarez is determined to help Atletico reach the Champions League final.
Sorloth and Giuliano Simeone Also Expected to Be Fit
Additionally, winger Giuliano Simeone and forward Alexander Sorloth are also anticipated to be available for the match. Simeone was substituted at halftime in the first leg at the Metropolitano, while Sorloth was sidelined with muscle discomfort during the draw in Madrid. Neither player is at 100%, but both will be available.
Defender Jose Maria Gimenez has returned to group training; however, after being out for over a month, his participation is not expected. Pablo Barrios and Nicolas Gonzalez will be the only absentees for Atletico against Arsenal. The availability of Sorloth and Alvarez could influence Diego Simeone’s tactical decisions, especially considering the possibility of extra time. Antoine Griezmann is likely to start, but it’s unlikely the veteran Frenchman will be able to play for the full 90 minutes.