Atletico Madrid blow as Sime Vrsaljko ‘ruled out’ of Manchester United second leg

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Atletico Madrid have been dealt a big blow after full-back Sime Vrsaljko picked up an injury.

Spanish newspaper Marca report the injury effectively rules him out of the second leg against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Vrsaljko has picked up a thigh muscle injury in Atletico Madrid’s win over Real Betis, which required him to be substituted just 21 minutes into the game.

The 51-time capped Croatia international started the Champions League last 16 first leg against Manchester United, featuring at right wing-back.

Marca report the 30-year-old will be out for at least two weeks, noting: “Due to the deadlines set by the medical department, Vrsaljko is ruled out for the fixture at Old Trafford.”

Problems for Atletico

Atletico are dealing with multiple injury issues. Midfield star Koke remains out injured, although Rodrigo de Paul did return.

Geoffrey Kondogbia also missed the win over Betis due to an injury sustained last week. He was impressive against United.

To add to the issues, Angel Correa also picked up a knock in Sunday’s win and was substituted on 27 minutes. Atletico are hopeful he will recover to face United, Marca note, but report ‘it is not certain’ he will be ready.

Luis Suarez played just seven minutes off the bench, and despite featuring briefly against United, Antoine Griezmann was on the bench at the weekend, called on early to replace Correa.

Vrsalkjo’s injury is problematic, with right-back a difficult area for them after selling Kieran Trippier. January signing Daniel Wass can play there, but he is out injured too.

Atletico brought on Yannick Carrasco to replace Vrsalkjo against Betis – but he is suspended for the second leg. This creates a real puzzle for manager Diego Simeone to try and solve, and exploiting this could be key to United winning the tie.