Top-spot conflict ignites.. Predicted lineup for the fiery summit between Atletico Madrid and Barcelona

08.11.26 15:00 LaLiga Spain

Atletico Madrid

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Barcelona

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Atletico Madrid host Barcelona at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday 8 November 2026 in a crucial La Liga Matchday 12 encounter.

The Catalan giants lead the standings with 30 points, just two ahead of second placed Atlético, making the contest particularly important in the Spanish title race.

Kickoff is scheduled for 20:00 GMT, with both managers facing important selection decisions.

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Atletico Madrid predicted lineup against Barcelona

Diego Simeone will be without Argentine defender Cristian Romero who remains sidelined with a muscle injury.

Marc Pubill is expected to partner David Hancko in central defence, while Marcos Llorente and Alejandro Grimaldo should occupy the full back positions.

Morten Hjulmand is available again, although captain Koke is also competing for a starting role in midfield.

South Korean international Kang-in Lee is expected to partner Julian Alvarez in attack, potentially leaving Nigerian star Ademola Lookman among the substitutes.

The Super Eagles forward has already enjoyed memorable moments against Barcelona including his outstanding performance in Atlético's 4-0 Copa del Rey victory in February.

Atletico Madrid predicted XI (4-4-2):

• Jan Oblak
• Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill, David Hancko, Alejandro Grimaldo
• Giuliano Simeone, Pablo Barrios, Morten Hjulmand, Álex Baena
• Kang-in Lee, Julian Alvarez.

Barcelona predicted lineup against Atletico Madrid

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick faces several selection problems, particularly in midfield and defence.

Rodri is unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury against Aston Villa in the Champions League.

Dani Olmo, Jules Kounde, Xavi Espart and Roony Bardghji are also sidelined.

However, Eric García and Andreas Christensen have returned to the squad, giving Flick additional defensive options.

Marc Bernal is competing with Frenkie de Jong for a midfield starting position alongside Pedri while Brian Fariñas could retain his place at right back.

Lamine Yamal, Fermín Lopez and Anthony Gordon are expected to support Raphinha in attack.

Egyptian youngster Hamza Abdelkarim has also been included in Barcelona's matchday squad and could provide an attacking option from the bench.

The former Al Ahly talent has continued his rise since joining Barcelona earlier this year.

Barcelona predicted XI (4-2-3-1):

• Joan Garcia
• Brian Farinas, Pau Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Joao Cancelo
• Marc Bernal, Pedri
• Lamine Yamal, Fermin Lopez, Anthony Gordon
• Raphinha

When will the official lineups be announced?

The official starting elevens are expected approximately one hour before kickoff.

Barcelona will attempt to extend their advantage at the top of La Liga, while Atletico Madrid could move into first place with a home victory.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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