Atletico Madrid star pulls out of Man Utd Champions League match after mum's death

Atletico Madrid captain Koke has pulled out of his side's Champions League clash with Manchester United following the death of his mother. Ana Merodio Borja died early on Tuesday in Madrid, Atletico said.

The Spanish side will wear black armbands for the clash against Premier League opposition, and a moment of silence will take place at the Metropolitano Stadium ahead of kick-off.

Koke, full name Jorge Resurrección, is joined by his brother, Borja, at Atletico. The latter is the assistant coach of the La Liga giants' under-19 side.

A moment of silence was observed ahead of their side's UEFA Youth League match against United, with Atletico coming away 3-0 victors.

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Manchester United paid their respects on social media: "Manchester United is saddened by the passing of Ana Merodio Borja, beloved mother of Atletico de Madrid captain Koke and U19s assistant coach Borja Resurrección.

"We offer our condolences to the family at this difficult time and invite supporters to join the two teams in a minute’s silence ahead of kick-off tonight."

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United will hope to be victorious in Champions League action, having recorded their worst start to a top-flight season in 40 years under Michael Carrick. The Red Devils have picked up just six points from as many matches in the Premier League.

Carrick led his team to victory in their first European match of the season when his side defeated Sabah 4-0 at Old Trafford. The Premier League side overcame their Spanish rivals in pre-season, claiming a 2-1 victory as Bryan Mbeumo scored a brace after the team had gone 1-0 down.

United are without Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo for the clash after picking up issues against Tottenham. They have not made the trip to Spain, but Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt has after almost a year out of action.

"We're not light on numbers, no," said Carrick. "Of course, we've got a couple of issues with some players missing out but we're definitely not light on numbers. It's good for Dan [Armer] to be part of it and for younger players to sample it, the build-up to the game, and get a sense of it.

"It's good to have Matta in and around it. We've had a little bit of patience with him, working through that and working hard to get to this stage. He's had a long journey so we're delighted to have him back."