A minute's silence will be observed before kick-off in the UEFA Champions League encounter between Manchester United and Atletico Madrid on Tuesday evening, following the death of Ana Merodio Borja — the mother of Atletico captain Koke and academy coach Borja Resurreccion.

Atletico confirmed her passing in an official statement on Tuesday, disclosing that she had died in Madrid earlier that morning. Players, staff, and supporters inside the stadium will unite in tribute before the referee's whistle.

Koke's deep bond with Atletico Madrid

Koke is among the most significant figures in Atletico's modern history. The midfielder joined Los Colchoneros at eight years old through their academy and has gone on to set the club's all-time appearance record, surpassing 600 senior matches. He has captained Diego Simeone's side through an era that has delivered two LaLiga titles, two UEFA Europa League triumphs, and two UEFA Champions League final appearances.

The family's ties to the club extend beyond Koke himself — his brother Borja serves as assistant coach for Atletico's Juvenil A academy squad, making the loss deeply personal across the club's entire structure.

How the tribute was approved

Securing an unscheduled pre-match tribute at such short notice is a complex undertaking. UEFA enforces detailed matchday protocols that govern broadcast windows, player walkouts, and the competition anthem — all tightly coordinated well in advance. Clubs are prohibited from staging a moment of silence or wearing black armbands without formal authorisation from UEFA.

Atletico submitted an emergency request to the appointed UEFA Match Delegate and competition directors, and the governing body granted special dispensation. Manchester United offered their immediate support and cooperation, allowing the pre-match schedule to be adjusted accordingly.

Manchester United kick off against Atletico Madrid in Madrid at 8pm, with the match broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video.