Atletico Madrid finally got their first win of the season at the weekend as they saw off Villarreal, but it did not come without setbacks. As a result, Diego Simeone could be without two starters for the midweek to Liverpool for the club’s first league phase match in the 2025-26 Champions League.

Atleti face Liverpool on Wednesday, but before kick off, it will have to be determined whether they can count on star striker Julian Alvarez and key defender David Hancko, as Diario AS has confirmed that both players suffered knocks during the victory over Villarreal at the RiyadhAir Metropolitano.

Alvarez is suffering with discomfort in his knee, which happened in the first half against Villarreal – it led to him being taken off at half time by Simeone. As for Hancko, he was forced off with a sprained ankle minutes after coming on late in the second period.

In the next 24 hours, it will be determined whether both players can travel to Liverpool for Atleti’s first match of the season in the Champions League. Los Colchoneros will be desperate to have them available, as it would greatly increase their chances of securing a positive result at Anfield.

Atleti receive more positive injury news

Alvarez and Hancko were not the only players to sustain blows against Villarreal, as Robin Le Normand and Nicolas Gonzalez also asked to be substituted. However, club officials believe that both players will be available to face Liverpool on Wednesday, which would be very positive news.

Atleti must now wait for further news on Alvarez and Hancko, but if either cannot make the trip, they would join Alex Baena, Thiago Almada and Jose Maria Gimenez on the injured list – all three players will definitely not be able to play against Liverpool in the Champions League opener.