Since the Atletico thread was closed prematurely, I'm stubbornly creating next year's thread with this year in the title. After Atletico wins or loses against Real Madrid in the Champions League final, I'll gladly update the thread title to reflect next year's campaign.
For now, Atletico celebrated its title this past weekend. Cholo coined a new phrase (or channeled his inner Kevin Garnet), "If you believe and if you work, anything is possible".
For Atleti, Costa is banged up and likely out against Real Madrid. The team is optimistic that Arda Turan will be fit for the match. I'm not optimistic that either will play -- both have missed time in the last month, and these injuries are re-aggravations of their previous injuries.
People are saying that Real Madrid are favorites, and they probably are. Then again, Real Madrid has really stumbled into the finish line. On top of the team's so-so form, they are trying to get healthy before Saturday. Benzema and Ronaldo are struggling with minor injuries, and Pepe is doubtful for the final. I believe, too, that Varane has been trying to overcome a reoccurring knee issue. Further complicating RM's line-up and tactics, Xavi Alonso will miss the match after a foolish foul against Bayern, and it seems that Ancelloti will play Illaramendi in his place (though there are people who are advocating the Kheidera feature in the starting-eleven).
For now, Atletico celebrated its title this past weekend. Cholo coined a new phrase (or channeled his inner Kevin Garnet), "If you believe and if you work, anything is possible".
For Atleti, Costa is banged up and likely out against Real Madrid. The team is optimistic that Arda Turan will be fit for the match. I'm not optimistic that either will play -- both have missed time in the last month, and these injuries are re-aggravations of their previous injuries.
People are saying that Real Madrid are favorites, and they probably are. Then again, Real Madrid has really stumbled into the finish line. On top of the team's so-so form, they are trying to get healthy before Saturday. Benzema and Ronaldo are struggling with minor injuries, and Pepe is doubtful for the final. I believe, too, that Varane has been trying to overcome a reoccurring knee issue. Further complicating RM's line-up and tactics, Xavi Alonso will miss the match after a foolish foul against Bayern, and it seems that Ancelloti will play Illaramendi in his place (though there are people who are advocating the Kheidera feature in the starting-eleven).