Champions League quarter-finals: Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez ruled out of first leg against Manchester City

Atletico Madrid have confirmed that Jose Gimenez will miss the first leg of their crucial Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City. The 27-year-old has shared a formidable centre-back partnership with Stefan Savic in recent weeks, with the defending La Liga champions currently enjoying a six-game winning streak in all competitions.

Ad/> However, the Uruguayan defender left the field late on during Saturday’s 4-1 win over Alaves, reportedly suffering from discomfort. Premier LeagueManchester City reclaim top spot with comfortable win at BurnleyYESTERDAY AT 13:24 It has now been confirmed he will not travel to Manchester for his side’s quarter-final first leg at the Etihad Stadium, with a club statement adding that he will undergo further tests to discover the full extent of the injury.

Brazilian defender Felipe is expected to replace Gimenez, who was reportedly the subject of significant interest from Manchester City in 2020. Atletico have already knocked one Manchester team out of Europe’s flagship club competition this season, having toppled Manchester United 2-1 on aggregate, including a decisive 1-0 victory at Old Trafford.

Speaking ahead of their return to England, Savic hailed Manchester City as one of the strongest sides left in the competition, but admits he and his team-mates will arrive in confident mood. 'World class' Kane is 'not normal — Conte Mbappe provides PSG future update amid Real Madrid links 'He has to take the steps himself' Rangnick on Rashford improvement He said: “I think we have the quality and strength to face this game against Manchester City and we will have our chances to go through.

“They have enormous attacking potential, but United had it too. We know that it will be a game