Atletico Madrid are set to return to La Liga action this Saturday as they welcome Celta Vigo to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, looking to bounce back from a tough Champions League exit.

After their frustrating 1-0 defeat to Arsenal in the second leg of their semi-final, Diego Simeone's men now shift focus back to domestic duties. Currently sitting fourth in the table with 63 points, Atletico have already secured their spot in next season's Champions League, but they're not resting on their laurels. A win here would strengthen their grip on third place and keep the momentum rolling.

Los Rojiblancos come into matchday 35 on a positive note in the league, having won their last two outings, including a solid 2-0 victory over Valencia. Their home form has been particularly impressive, with 14 wins from 17 matches at the Metropolitano this season—a fortress they'll look to defend against a tricky Celta side.

However, Simeone faces some significant selection headaches. Star forward Julián Álvarez is ruled out after aggravating an ankle injury during the Arsenal clash, a major blow to the attack. The midfield is also hit hard: Johnny Cardoso is sidelined for the remainder of the season with a serious ankle problem, while Pablo Barrios and Nicolás González continue their recovery from thigh issues. Giuliano Simeone is also a doubt for the fixture.

With these absences, all eyes will be on Alexander Sørloth, who is expected to lead the line. In midfield, Obed Vargas and veteran Koke are likely to step up and anchor the engine room, providing the experience and grit needed to control the game.

Predicted Atletico Madrid Starting XI: Musso; Pubill, Le Normand, Lenglet, Molina, Julio Díaz; Mendoza, Koke, Vargas, Almada; Sorloth

The match kicks off at 5:30pm BST on Saturday, 9th May. UK fans can catch all the action live on La Liga TV.

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