It was the big surprise of last season: Samu Lino became the starting extrem for Atlético de Madrid. The Brazilian footballer returned to the club with a bang after his loan to Valencia CF and has earned himself a place in the starting eleven. He was close to the doors of the Brazilian national team, who clamorously asked for him to be a "scratch", but he was not called by Fernando Diniz.
He had a somewhat turbulent year at Valencia: he started playing and ended up playing, although not everything was rosy. The instability of the club, which had three coaches in total, caused him some doubts. In total, he played 41 games at the Valencian club, scoring eight goals and providing three assists, making himself known in Spanish football.
He took Carrasco's position
His return to Atlético de Madrid could not have been better; everything has gone smoothly, his emergence has been brutal. With the departure of Yannick Carrasco, there was an important gap on the left flank that the Brazilian knew how to earn. His electricity and speed have given the team wings in attack, making him one of the most necessary threats for Simeone's team.
In his first full season with the red-and-whites, Samu Lino has played 46 games, improving his productivity with 8 goals and 8 assists. The same number of goals as last season, but with five more assists. A starter in 36 of those matches, he has earned a place in the starting eleven, being a newcomer, something extremely difficult with Diego Pablo Simeone as coach.
Griezmann, his best partner
Unless you are very good, and the Brazilian is, it is expected that he will be able to make a step up in class this season. He will start as a starter on the wing, where he will play alongside Marcos Llorente or Nahuel Molina on the other side. With Antoine Griezmann in attack, plus the help of Rodrigo de Paul and Koke in the middle, with Julián Álvarez as the big star forward.
Samuel Lino has a contract with Atlético de Madrid until 2027 and a buyout clause of more than 100 million euros. He has earned a pay rise, so he may soon get his reward. Although it is not the club's plan to increase the salary of any player, Lino has earned a review, at the very least.
Just think about Atleti
Samu Lino's agent has received calls from many European leagues: from England, France and even Germany. The Brazilian is not considering leaving Cívitas Metropolitano to leave the club. Last summer, Borussia Dortmund tried to sign him and was faced with the reality: he is a player who counts for a lot.
Atlético de Madrid has a diamond and wants to continue to exploit it, giving it much more strength and drive. Its ability to associate and its ability to score goals are fundamental for the team to maintain its growth.