Rival watch: Atletico will be able to count on superstar forward against Real Madrid

Rival watch: Atletico will be able to count on superstar forward against Real Madrid Atletico Madrid appear set to have Julian Alvarez available for the first Madrid derby of the 2026/27 season, giving Diego Simeone another attacking option ahead of the meeting with Real Madrid. The Argentine has missed Atletico’s last two matches after suffering a minor muscle strain during the Champions League clash with Liverpool.  He subsequently sat out the games against Real Sociedad and Osasuna, but his recovery has progressed well enough for the club to feel increasingly confident about his chances of featuring against Real Madrid. Alvarez steps up recovery ahead of derby According to AS , Alvarez trained at a very good pace alongside Atletico’s physiotherapists on Thursday morning, with his progress providing encouragement inside the club. Julian Alvarez will be available against Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Unless there is a late setback, the 2026 Madrid derby should come too soon for him to be considered a guaranteed starter.  Even so, Simeone could have Alvarez available from the bench, which would give Atletico another proven attacking threat for the closing stages. Meanwhile, his absence has also created a genuine battle for places in the Atletico starting XI.  The players who have stepped in during his absence have given Simeone another selection dilemma, meaning Alvarez’s return does not automatically guarantee his place from the opening whistle. Real Madrid also close to full strength Alvarez is unlikely to start against Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Real Madrid, meanwhile, head into the derby with a relatively clean injury list. Jose Mourinho’s only unavailable players are Eder Militao , Rodrygo and Ferland Mendy, all of whom remain sidelined. Mourinho made some changes during the midweek fixture, with Trent Alexander-Arnold among those given a start.  That rotation was useful with the derby approaching, but Real Madrid are expected to return to their strongest available XI at the Metropolitano. The derby therefore looks set to feature two sides with most of their key players available, although Atletico’s decision over Alvarez could become one of the most interesting selection calls of the weekend.