Dani Martinez

Starts at left-back against Espanyol

Martinez is in the starting lineup at left-back for Saturday's La Liga clash against Espanyol, marking his first appearance since the opening match of the season.

Analysis: Martinez returns to Atletico Madrid's starting XI after spending the previous nine matches on the bench without making an appearance across La Liga and Champions League competition. The defender last featured in the 2-0 victory over Malaga on Aug. 19, when he played the full 90 minutes and recorded two clearances, two tackles (one won), one shot and a clean sheet. His inclusion against Espanyol provides him with an opportunity to regain playing time after nearly two months without competitive action, although his start only allows Alejandro Grimaldo to rest ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Stuttgart.