Diego Simeone, the master tactician of Atletico Madrid, has finally broken his silence regarding the fitness of his Nigerian linked Argentine star Jul...
Diego Simeone, the master tactician of Atletico Madrid, has finally broken his silence regarding the fitness of his Nigerian linked Argentine star Julian Alvarez. The forward, who drew first blood for the Colchoneros with a clinical penalty kick in the first leg of this high stakes Champions League semi final tie against Arsenal, was forced to leave the pitch with thirteen minutes left on the clock. The sight of the £82 million man limping off the turf at the Emirates Stadium sent shockwaves through the Spanish capital and indeed across viewing centres from Surulere to Victoria Island. However, speaking to GoalZaza after the pulsating 1. 1 draw, Simeone offered a measured assessment that will offer some succour to the Rojiblancos faithful. He stated unequivocally that the injury is not as severe as first feared and that the club. �s medical team is working around the clock to ensure the former Manchester City man can give a good account of himself in the second leg. While no final decision has been taken by the powers that be, the Argentine handler noted that Alvarez. �s chances of featuring are bright, describing him as a resilient warrior who understands the scheme of things at this level. The Nigerian angle in this saga is significant; with Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman watching closely from the stands and at home, the performance of Alvarez in the reverse fixture could determine whether the Super Eagles. � European rivals for the Ballon d. �Or conversation get to advance to the final. At the end of the day, the lion. �s share of the credit in the first leg went to Arsenal. �s resilience, but all eyes in Lagos will be on the fitness bulletin from Madrid. In the viewing centres around Maryland and Lekki, the tension was palpable as fans debated the value of Alvarez. �s penalty against the Gunners. � formidable defence. Many who had staked their hard earned Naira on a clean Atletico victory were left biting their nails when the substitution was announced. Now, with Simeone. �s latest word, there is a renewed sense of cautious optimism that the South American magician will be fit to don his red and white jersey and finish the job at the Metropolitano. The second leg promises to be a battle of wits and will, and Alvarez. �s availability could very well be the deciding factor in who books a ticket to the final.
