According to AS, Atlético Madrid captain Koke returned to the team on Thursday following the death of his mother, training in the gym that day and receiving care and support from his teammates.
Koke's mother passed away on Tuesday. Atlético Madrid had a day off on Wednesday after their 2-0 Champions League victory over Manchester United. The captain's return made Thursday a special training day at the Majadahonda training ground.
Koke did not train on the grass pitch at Cerro del Espino but instead worked in the gym. All his teammates offered him their support, just as they did before, during, and after the match against Manchester United. The team will train again on Friday before traveling to Barcelona and checking into a local hotel that evening to prepare for the match against Espanyol.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, Koke will travel with the team to face Espanyol. Against Manchester United, Atlético's midfield consisted of Carlos Cardoso and Barrios, and Koke is expected to get playing time in the match against Espanyol.
Koke's brother Borja also led Atlético Madrid's U19 A team in training that day. He serves as an assistant coach for the team and is well-liked throughout the club. The two brothers once again felt the care of the Atlético Madrid family. Additionally, Carlos Cardoso missed training that day due to illness. Whether he can travel to Barcelona with his teammates will depend on his physical condition during Friday's training session.
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