Atletico Madrid captain Koke has been forced to withdraw late from the squad taking on Manchester United in the Champions League this evening after the death of his mother.
The 34-year-old was set to be a part of the squad hosting Manchester United at the Wanda Metropolitano this evening.
But Atletico have since confirmed that he will miss the game after his mother Ana Merodio Borja, passed away in Madrid this morning. She was also the mother of Borja Resurrección, assistant coach of the Juvenil A team.
The Spanish side are now set to observe a minute’s silence before the game as well.
Atletico statement
The Spanish side confirmed plans for the evening in an official statement on their website.
“Tonight, prior to the start of the Champions League match against Manchester United, a minute of silence will be observed in memory of Ana Merodio Borja—mother of our captain, Koke—who passed away this morning in Madrid,” it read.
“Our club requested UEFA’s authorization to observe a minute of silence at both the first-team match and the UEFA Youth League game, as well as permission for the players to wear black armbands.
“European football’s governing body has granted approval for this heartfelt tribute to the mother of our captain and our U-19 A team coach. Additionally, as a mark of respect for her memory, the red-and-white flag at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano is flying at half-mast.
“Everyone at Atlético de Madrid wishes to express our deepest condolences to her family and friends. And especially to Koke, the first-team captain, and Borja Resurrección, assistant coach of the U-19 A team. May she rest in peace.”
A blow for Simeone
Koke’s absence will be a major blow for Diego Simeone’s side. The Atleti captain is still playing a key role in the Argentine’s plans.
The Spaniard started the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool last month, lasting 59 minutes. He’s also featured in all eight of Atleti’s La Liga games to date, starting four of them.
Simeone will now have to cover for his absence after the sad news regarding his mother this morning.
