Rival watch: Atletico Madrid forward ruled out of game against Barcelona

Memphis Depay’s hopes of exacting revenge against his former side have to wait, as the Atletico Madrid attacker has been ruled out of the upcoming game against Barcelona this weekend.

The Dutchman, who joined Atleti in the January transfer window, wanted to take revenge against Barça for the way the club wanted to get rid of him. But he has struggled to return to full fitness and has been ruled out of the weekend encounter, reports Diario AS.

After picking up a knock during the international break, Depay missed three consecutive league matches, but was expected to return for the Barcelona clash. However, to his misfortune, the attacker remained on the sidelines and could not recover in time.

Depay should join the injured Reinildo Mandava and the suspended Marcos Llorente in Atleti’s list of absentees ahead of the Barcelona tie. Llorente picked up his fifth yellow card of the season against Almeria, effectively ruling him out of the next game.

Depay’s absence could be a boost for Barcelona as the former Man United starlet was showcasing good form with Atletico Madrid since joining the club. He notably racked up three goals and has played a crucial role in the final third alongside Antoine Griezmann.

While Depay is out, Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has been boosted by the return of Angel Correa. The Argentine is expected to start alongside Griezmann in the two-pronged Atleti frontline that will look to demolish the Barcelona defence.

Alvaro Morata could be an option from the bench for Los Colchoneros as they seek retribution after suffering a narrow defeat in the reverse fixture. A win for the capital club may also unlock the opportunity to pip Real Madrid and move second in the league table, provided their cross-town rivals lose against Celta Vigo on Saturday.