Boost for Real Madrid as Atletico set to miss 2 players in crunch derby

Atletico Madrid will be without two key midfielders for Saturday's derby clash against Real Madrid.

Diego Simeone's men are riding high after their dramatic 3-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano, but preparations are underway for their second local derby of the week.

However, the Argentine tactician will not be able to count on Johnny Cardoso and Thiago Almada.

Cardoso's absence was largely anticipated, with reports indicating he wouldn't return before the October international break.

There was hope, however, that Almada would be fit in time, but Pedro Fulana of Cadena SER confirmed that both players will miss this weekend's derby.

Jose Maria Gimenez and Alex Baena will also be unavailable for selection. The former's absence comes as no surprise, as he is recovering from a muscle injury and will be gradually reintroduced to play.

More positive news comes from Baena, who was on the bench against Rayo and could see minutes against Real Madrid. The star summer signing is recovering from an appendectomy.

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso also faces a dilemma over whether to reinstate Jude Bellingham to the starting lineup, after giving him around half an hour off the bench against Espanyol and Levante.

"Los Blancos" will be without Antonio Rüdiger and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are recovering from longer-term muscle issues.