The American player Johnny Cardoso is preparing for a tough challenge after recent medical examinations revealed a muscle injury in his left thigh, which may keep him off the field for approximately two weeks.

Nevertheless, Cardoso announced his readiness to take risks and participate in the UEFA Champions League matches, especially after becoming an influential part of Atlético Madrid's lineup.

Cardoso had been experiencing muscle discomfort during the international break with his national team, which forced coach Pochettino to substitute him in the match against Belgium.

His absence from the league match against Barcelona coincided with him receiving his fifth yellow card, while his participation in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals next Tuesday against Barça, and even in the King's Cup final, remains in doubt.

The challenge for coach Diego Simeone doubled after the absence of Llorente due to suspension and the unavailability of Pablo Barrios, while the good news came from the improvement in Rodrigo Mendoza's condition and his nearing recovery from an ankle injury.

Llorente will have to play cautiously in the Champions League to avoid missing the return match if he receives a yellow card at Camp Nou.

On the other hand, Barcelona is also dealing with the absence of Raphinha, which makes Llorente's role on the front less significant, while Cardoso's absence represents a new blow to what is known as the "FIFA virus."