Both sides are unbeaten in the Spanish first division this season despite being some way off Hansi Flick’s winning Barcelona machine. Atletico are two points behind their city rivals after four wins and three draws in seven outings but will leapfrog them with victory at the Metropolitano.
Atletico have been in impressive form after spending big over the summer period, with four wins from their last five matches. While they may have one eye on a Champions League clash with Benfica midweek, Sunday’s encounter is undoubtedly top priority for Diego Simeone’s side.
Real Madrid have won all five of their most recent matches but have made life a little difficult for themselves on occasion. Their recent 3-2 win over Deportivo Alaves almost saw them surrender a three-goal lead while their opening Champions League win over Stuttgart was far from convincing.
Atletico have three absentees for the visit of their neighbours, with Cesar Azpilicueta, Pablo Barrios and Thomas Lemar all missing out.
Kylian Mbappe misses the chance to feature in his first Madrid derby after suffering a leg injury in the 3-2 win over Alaves. The Frenchman is expected to be sidelined for several weeks
