Atletico captain Koke withdraws from Manchester United Champions League tie after mother's death

Atletico Madrid captain Koke will play no part in Tuesday’s Champions League tie against Manchester United at the Metropolitano Stadium after the death of his mother, Ana Merodio Borja, who passed away in Madrid in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

Atletico confirmed the news ahead of kick-off, announcing that the squad will wear black armbands during the match as a mark of respect. A minute’s silence will also be observed at the Metropolitano before the game gets underway.

Manchester United issued a statement on social media extending their condolences to the Atletico captain and his family. “Manchester United is saddened by the passing of Ana Merodio Borja, beloved mother of Atletico de Madrid captain Koke and U19s assistant coach Borja Resurrección,” the club wrote. “We offer our condolences to the family at this difficult time and invite supporters to join the two teams in a minute’s silence ahead of kick-off tonight.”

Koke, who has spent his entire senior career at Atletico and has long served as the club’s on-field leader, is also the brother of Borja Resurrección, an assistant coach within Atletico’s youth setup — meaning the bereavement touches the club at multiple levels.

His absence is a significant blow to Diego Simeone’s side as they face a Manchester United team in the Champions League knockout rounds. Atletico will now need to reorganise their midfield without their captain for what is one of the most high-profile fixtures in the European calendar this week.