Atlético de Madrid's Champions League match against Manchester United has been declared high-risk by Spanish authorities. Tuesday's clash at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, on the competition's second matchday, will see a security deployment of around 1,150 personnel.
The Government Delegation in Madrid confirmed the operation. "The Government Delegation in Madrid will deploy around 1,150 personnel to guarantee security for the match between Atlético de Madrid and Manchester United," it stated. The decision follows forecasts that approximately 3,400 English ticket holders will attend the game.
A comprehensive operation
The security force includes the National Police, Civil Guard, Madrid Municipal Police, SAMUR-Civil Protection, the Fire Brigade, the Red Cross, and the club's private security staff. Specialised National Police units such as the Police Intervention Unit, the Special Cavalry Unit, and Canine Guides will be involved. Metro security will also be reinforced to manage the movement of visiting supporters.
The high-risk classification triggers mandatory additional measures. These include specific ticket sale controls, strict separation of fan groups inside the stadium, and enhanced access monitoring. Security forces will coordinate prevention and monitoring of fan groups with match organisers.
Authorities recommend all attendees arrive at the stadium well in advance. The aim is to avoid congestion around the venue and facilitate the work of security staff. The match is scheduled for a 9 PM kick-off.
This European fixture comes at a strong time for Atlético. Simeone's side are second in La Liga with 19 points from eight games and are on a run of four consecutive league wins. Their latest victory came last Saturday at Mendizorrotza against Alavés (1-2), with goals from Grimaldo and Cristian Romero.
After the continental duel, focus returns to domestic action. The next fixture is a trip to Cornellà-El Prat to face Espanyol on Saturday, 17 October. The full season schedule is available in our fixtures section.
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