Giménez Returns to Squad After Over Three Months Away
Atlético de Madrid Meets Inter Milan in Libyan Friendly Amidst Social Progress
Atlético de Madrid’s Decisive Squad for Benghazi Encounter
Atlético de Madrid is set to play a noteworthy friendly against Inter Milan today at 18:00 Spanish time in Benghazi, Libya. Head coach Diego Simeone has announced a 22-player squad to face Inter Milan, highlighting key returns and fresh faces.
José María Giménez, making a comeback after a three-and-a-half-month hiatus, is among the first-team members traveling to Libya, alongside Thiago Almada, who is back from injury. Joining them are notable players including Juan Musso, Conor Gallagher, Koke, Antoine Griezmann, Carlos Martín, Marc Pubill, and Javi Galán.
Youthful Energy: Players From The Academy
Due to the absence of eleven international players currently with their national teams, Atlético de Madrid has drafted several emerging talents from The Academy. Fernando Torres’ Atlético Madrileño nurtures young talents such as:
- Mario de Luis
- Aleksa Purix
- Ilias Kostis
- Carlos Giménez
- Javi Serrano
- Jorge Castillo
- Jorge Rajado
- Omar Janneh
Further supporting the effort are Darío Frey, Juan Alegre, and Jesús Barrios from Atlético C.
Notable Absences for Atlético de Madrid
Meanwhile, two influential Atlético de Madrid players will miss the match. Hancko is currently on paternity leave, while Johnny Cardoso remains sidelined due to injury. These absences do present challenges, yet they also provide opportunities for young players to shine.
The Importance of the Benghazi Friendly
The match against Inter Milan will be held at the newly revamped International Stadium of Benghazi. Besides its primary sporting aspect, the friendly carries a significant political and social narrative. Libya, overcoming a challenging decade rife with socio-political and economic turmoil, aims to showcase its development and improved stability.
The event also serves to award the Reconstruction Cup (FDLR) to the match winner as a symbol of progress and resurgence in the North African nation. Atlético de Madrid’s presence in Libya not only represents a sporting contest but stands as a testament to the region’s ongoing recovery and regeneration.
