Atlético de Madrid will face Getafe this Sunday at the Coliseum (14:00). Although this match falls between their Champions League fixtures against Real Madrid, it holds significant importance for the Rojiblancos, who sit just one point behind LaLiga leaders Barcelona.

With a demanding schedule and the effort expended on Tuesday, along with upcoming matches against both Real Madrid and Hansi Flick’s team next week, Diego Simeone may introduce several changes to refresh the squad.

Many Atlético fans are left wondering if they will see players who have been sidelined in recent weeks making an appearance on the pitch at the Coliseum. Notable mentions include Riquelme, Witsel, and Lemar, the latter of whom is still recovering from a serious injury sustained last season and has yet to regain peak form.

Riquelme has not been a starter since January 15, during the Copa del Rey clash against Elche at Martínez Valero. Since then, he has participated in only three matches (Salzburg, Mallorca, and Getafe), totaling a mere 42 minutes. He could potentially see more time on the field against José Bordalás’s side.

Read more: Figueroa Vázquez and Getafe: A Troubled Relationship The situation is worse for Witsel, who last set foot on the pitch on January 25 against Villarreal at the Metropolitano, where he was a starter and completed the full 90 minutes. Lemar’s last appearance was a scant nine minutes on January 29 in Salzburg, once the match was effectively decided. In total, he has only played four matches this season, accumulating 56 minutes.

These three players have seen the least action on the team, apart from Azpilicueta, who has been kept off the field due to injuries. However, when fit, he has been called upon more frequently than they have, even starting at Mestalla on February 22 before leaving the match at halftime due to discomfort.

Although their involvement has been minimal recently, Simeone has consistently praised these players in his media appearances, highlighting their professionalism and readiness to step onto the pitch when needed. Getafe may present an opportunity for them—whether as starters (unlikely) or in the second half.

Read more: Atletico Madrid boss Simeone disappointed in bad loss at Getafe