Atletico Madrid players will wear black armbands during Tuesday's Champions League match against Manchester United as a tribute to captain Jorge "Koke" Resurrección's mother, who passed away early Tuesday morning.
Koke has been ruled out of the squad following the sudden passing of his mother, Ana Merodio Borja, in Madrid. The club did not publicly disclose the cause of death.
UEFA approves pre-match tribute
European football's governing body, UEFA, authorised a moment of silence to be held before kickoff at the Metropolitano Stadium. In addition, the Atletico players will wear black armbands during the match to honour her memory.
A moment of silence was also observed prior to Atletico's 3-0 Youth League win over United. Koke's brother, Borja Resurrección, serves as an assistant coach for the club's under-19 team.
Club shows solidarity with captain
Atletico Madrid lowered the main club flag outside the Metropolitano Stadium to half-staff in a gesture of solidarity with the captain and his family, highlighting the deep bond between the club and its long-serving midfielder.
Management, technical staff, and Koke's teammates offered heartfelt condolences to the midfielder and fully supported his decision to stay with his family rather than compete.
Impact on the lineup
Koke's absence forces head coach Diego Simeone to adjust his midfield setup for the crucial European match. Morten Hjulmand is expected to step into the starting lineup in his place.
The fixture presents a major matchup against Manchester United, who are entering the contest looking to build momentum. Koke's absence deprives Atletico of their primary leader and central orchestrator on the pitch.
