Predicted Lineups for the Copa del Rey Final: Atlético de Madrid vs. Real Sociedad

This Saturday, April 18, starting at 9:00 PM, the Estadio de La Cartuja will host the final of the Copa del Rey. It is a date with history for Atlético de Madrid and Real Sociedad, who are looking to lift their 11th and 4th titles, respectively. To achieve this, following a tournament in which they have knocked out several top contenders and the competition's historical heavyweights, Diego Pablo Simeone and Pellegrino Matarazzo will look to field their strongest possible XIs.

Atlético de Madrid Predicted Lineup

For Atlético de Madrid, this final represents the chance to lift an official trophy five years after their 11th LALIGA EA SPORTS title (2021) and thirteen years after their 10th Copa del Rey (2013).

To expand their trophy cabinet, the Argentine manager will almost certainly be without Hancko and Giménez in defense; Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso in midfield; and Oblak between the posts. The Slovenian has been sidelined for several weeks, but his absence has been covered with full confidence by Musso.

Consequently, the Rojiblanco starting eleven at La Cartuja could consist of Musso in goal, with Nahuel Molina, Pubill, Le Normand, and Ruggeri in defense. The double pivot will once again feature Koke (the sole survivor of the 2013 Cup win) and Marcos Llorente, with Lookman and Giuliano on the wings. Griezmann would act as the playmaker behind the main attacking reference, Julián Álvarez.

Real Sociedad Predicted Lineup

As for Real Sociedad, Odriozola and Yangel Herrera are confirmed absentees, while Gorrotxategi remains a major doubt. Additionally, Gonçalo Guedes and Oyarzabal are nursing discomfort—though their presence seems likely—and Take Kubo arrives at the match with very few minutes of recent playing time. Zubeldia is also dealing with various physical issues.

Thus, the defense appears destined to be formed by Aramburu and Sergio Gómez as full-backs, with Jon Martín and Ćaleta-Car as the center-back pairing. The double pivot would be occupied by Carlos Soler and Turrientes, with Guedes on one wing and Oyarzabal as the striker. This leaves two spots to be filled in the attacking midfield line: Brais Méndez, Barrenetxea, and Sučić are competing for them, with the Croatian being a strong candidate due to his versatility and recent form.

The other big question for La Real is in goal: Unai Marrero has been the "Cup keeper," but he hasn't played since the semifinals a month and a half ago. Álex Remiro, the regular LALIGA starter, remains the primary alternative.