Atletico Madrid train at Stuttgart's MHP Arena with Johnny Cardoso back in the squad

Atletico Madrid have already got a feel for the stage of their next European test. The squad trained on Monday at the MHP Arena, the venue that will host the third matchday of the Champions League league phase against VfB Stuttgart on Tuesday, October 20. The German stadium, with a capacity of 60,449 spectators, offered a pristine pitch and pleasant temperatures for the workout.

• Atletico Madrid held their only adaptation session at Stuttgart's MHP Arena.
• Johnny Cardoso returned to full training and could reinforce the midfield amid several absences.
• Koke Resurreccion and Cristian 'Cuti' Romero remain sidelined through injury.
• A win in Germany would push the team toward the top of the standings after collecting three points from two matches.

Diego Simeone fine-tunes tactical details in Germany

Diego Pablo Simeone led a low-intensity session focused on refreshing concepts and rehearsing movements rather than adding minutes to his players' legs. The media were allowed to watch fifteen minutes of the workout, enough to notice the positive atmosphere inside the dressing room. Laughter and a strong sense of togetherness marked that visible stretch, with the squad well aware of what is at stake.

Johnny Cardoso returns ahead of the Stuttgart clash

The biggest piece of good news came from Johnny Cardoso. The American midfielder completed the session normally alongside his teammates after shaking off the illness that had kept him away from training in recent days. His recovery could not be better timed, as it gives Simeone another option in a midfield depleted by Koke's absence.

Key absences shaping Atletico's Champions League lineup

The Argentine coach will have to adjust his starting eleven around two significant losses. Koke Resurreccion is unavailable after suffering a hamstring injury, a setback that comes during a demanding stretch of the fixture list. Cristian 'Cuti' Romero also did not travel, forcing more changes in the heart of the defense. Both players are usually central to Simeone's plans.

What is at stake for Atletico Madrid in Stuttgart

Atletico's start to this new Champions League league phase has fallen short of expectations. With three points from the opening two matchdays, a victory on German soil would provide a major boost to their hopes of finishing in the top eight and securing direct qualification for the round of 16. In such a demanding format, picking up points away from home is essential to avoid slipping into the playoff spots.

The mood inside the camp gives reason for optimism. The session featured confident gestures and a united group, fully aware that a strong result at the MHP Arena could change the European outlook for the team. With the home crowd pushing from the stands, Atletico will look to impose their experience in a match that feels decisive.

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