One thing that has become clear in these first few months of competition is that Atlético de Madrid still have some work to do with their squad. Pablo Barrios' injury was enough for many to realise that the midfield would have needed another addition in the summer. In fact, there was one name that appeared in the final days of the transfer window, although it was not an easy operation to close.
It was Gabri Veiga , a Spanish midfielder who, coincidentally, made his debut in the elite thanks to Celta de Vigo , tomorrow's rival of the red-and-whites. It was one of the first big outlays made in Arab football and he would be willing to return to Europe . Fabrizio Romano already revealed that the colchonero team had him in their sights, although some departures would be necessary.
Gabri Veiga, an old wish
The player's arrival in Spain was a complete surprise, as he quickly established himself in Celta de Vigo's first team. To remember him, we have to go back to the 2022-23 season , when he began to attract all the attention due to his good performance. In that campaign, he would be able to reach 11 goals , generating the interest of some big clubs in Spain and Europe.
However, Gabri Veiga was unexpectedly transferred to Al-Ahli for 30 million euros , a very high figure. Even so, he continued to have the confidence of the Spanish U-21 team , where he was called up last November. At that time he was able to coincide with Pablo Barrios , who was building his future in the first team of Atlético de Madrid.
His current market value is 25 million euros and he would be willing to return to Europe if a suitable offer came in. In the summer, the red-and-whites had intended to secure his loan, but the need to get rid of some players prevented the operation. He is still only 22 years old and his great potential would allow him to start from scratch at a new Spanish club like the Madrid club.
Future with Pablo Barrios
It's clear that Atlético de Madrid have made a great signing in Conor Gallagher , who has already scored two goals and made several starts. However, the squad still needs a deep regeneration, as the average age is still too advanced. One of the great challenges will be finding the perfect replacement for Koke , a job that seems destined to fall to Pablo Barrios .
Obviously, a signing like Gabri Veiga would allow them to add a player with a lot of room for growth. However, the sporting management would need to find a destination for Thomas Lemar or Javi Galán , a very complicated task. If they manage to do so, the winter market could be the perfect time to bring in a new midfielder .