Atletico Madrid are heading into the thirteenth year of Diego Simeone’s reign as manager, having enjoyed a considerable amount of success under the Argentine since he took charge of the Spanish capital club in 2011.
Los Colchoneros will be looking to reinforce in both attack and defense after seeing a number of key players from last season depart this summer.
Soccernet.football takes a look at how Simeone could potentially set up his starting XI when the 2024/2025 football season kicks off.
Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
The Slovakia international remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world and he’ll certainly be Atleti’s first-choice shot-stopper in the coming season. Oblak’s reaction saves and authority over his box ensure he remains up there with the best of the best.
Defenders: Jose Gimenez, Robin Le Normand and Axel Witsel
Simeone favours a three-man defense so we could potentially see a trio of Jose Gimenez, Robin Le Normand and Axel Witsel line up at the back for Atleti. Gimenez’s tough style of defending and aerial quality has been a mainstay in Atleti’s defense over the years. His leadership and experience will be crucial in organizing the backline
Summer signing Le Normand’s reading of the game and interceptions will be key to disrupting opposition possessions. Although a natural midfielder by trade, Witsel has demonstrated his versatility and defensive IQ to compliment the back three successfully. His range of passing from the back will play a huge role in starting swift counter-attacks.
Right Wing-Back: Nahuel Molina
The Argentine impressed last season for Atleti while playing as a right wing-back with his speed and tantalizing deliveries often causing problems for opposition defenses. Molina also proved to be reliable defensively as he successfully balanced his endeavors on both ends of the pitch. We expect the 2024 Copa America winner to keep his place in the coming season.
Left Wing-Back: Samuel Lino
Lino’s dribbling, pace and crossing as a left wing-back are highly valuable. The versatile 24-year-old can pitch in on the offensive end and get back to defend, making him a very well-balanced player and a very important member of Simeone’s set up. We may also get to see the Brazilian feature in midfield or as a left-winger depending on Simeone’s tactical setups.
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Koke, Rodrigo Riquelme
De Paul, Koke and Riquelme make up Simeone’s potential midfield trio for the coming season. De Paul, who recently enjoyed success with Argentina at the 2024 Copa America is expected to continue to be one of Atleti’s ever-presents when the season begins.
Koke, who offers years of top level experience and leadership will be the heartbeat of Simeone’s side with his relentless work rate, tactical intelligence and passing accuracy. The Spaniard will play a huge role in orchestrating play from deep, as well maintaining Atleti’s balance by contributing defensively.
Riquelme was a constant nuisance in the final third last season as he registered nine goal contributions for Los Colchoneros. The 24-year-old Spaniard guarantees that Atletico have the creative masterclass required to unlock defenses and create scoring opportunities for their front men.
Second Striker: Antoine Griezmann
The Frenchman’s versatility, technical ability and knowledge of the game makes him a key outlet in attack. His tendency to drop deep and link play with the team will be crucial in the coming season. After recording over 30 goal contributions last season, surely Simeone will be looking to build his attack around the 33-year-old.
Center Forward: Alexander Sørloth
With the departure of Alvaro Morata to AC Milan, Atletico Madrid are in the market for a new striker with reports suggesting that they are looking at Villareal’s Alexander Sørloth. Sørloth’s physical presence and keen eye for goal makes him an interesting option upfront for Los Colchoneros but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to prise him away from the Yellow Submarines.