Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has revealed that striker Antoine Griezmann will not be available for the second leg of Atletico's Copa del Rey semi-final against Athletic Bilbao.
"Antoine Griezmann will not take part in the match. He needs to recover well, he has made efforts to be able to take part in the upcoming match. The teammates who will replace him will do their best. I did not expect him to be available for this match, despite all the efforts he has made," Simeone said.
Simeone's comments come after Griezmann was forced off the pitch in the 78th minute of Atletico's UEFA Champions League last-XNUMX first leg against Inter Milan due to injury. It was later revealed that the France forward had suffered a moderate ankle sprain.
The second leg of the Copa del Rey semi-final between Atletico Madrid and Athletic Bilbao is scheduled for February 29, 2024 at 23:30 Moscow time. The first leg ended in a 1-0 victory for Athletic Bilbao.
Griezmann's absence will be a blow to Atletico Madrid as the 32-year-old has been a crucial player for the team this season, contributing 18 goals and 7 assists in 36 appearances in all competitions. His ability to create chances and score goals will be missed as Atletico look to overturn their first-leg deficit and secure a place in the Copa del Rey final.
Atletico's medical staff will be working hard to ensure Griezmann's recovery, but Simeone's comments suggest the forward is unlikely to be available for the crucial second leg against Athletic Bilbao. Atletico will have to find a way to compensate for Griezmann's absence and mount a tough challenge to reach the final of the domestic cup competition.
