After a 2023/24 season marked by certain defensive shortcomings, Atlético de Madrid has decided to strengthen its backline to face the challenges of the new campaign with confidence. Throughout last season, the team led by Diego Simeone suffered ups and downs in the defensive line, an aspect that has always been key in the rojiblanco style. Finally, a player who seemed discarded will stay and fight for a place in the backline.
A summer in search of defenses
To overcome these problems, Atlético have made two important signings in the defensive line: Robin Le Normand and Clément Lenglet. Both players arrive with the intention of consolidating the central defence and providing greater security to the team. Coming from Real Sociedad, Robin Le Normand has proven to be one of the most solid centre-backs in LaLiga in recent seasons, whereas Lenglet will seek to improve his past records.
However, the reinforcements have not only been limited to central defence, as players have arrived in all lines. On the left flank, the competition will be intense this season, as Samu Lino and Riquelme have been showing great performances in recent matches. In addition to these two players, a player who seemed to have no place at Atlético de Madrid will be added.
Lino, who already stood out last season, has earned Simeone's trust thanks to his versatility and ability to unbalance in attack. Meanwhile, Riquelme, after his loan at Girona, returned to Atlético with the aim of making a place for himself in the starting eleven, and after one season he is close to achieving it. With this competition on the left flank, the fight for a place in the team is more intense than ever.
Javi Galán stays at Atletico Madrid
In this context, there is one player who is clear that he will have to give his best to get a chance: Javi Galán. The left-back, who arrived at Atlético in the summer of 2023 from Celta de Vigo, was on loan at Real Sociedad in search of minutes. So far, Javi Galán has not earned Simeone's trust and will have to fight for a place.
Now, at the start of the 2024/25 season, Galán faces an immense challenge. With Lino and Riquelme in great form, the former Celta player knows that it will not be easy to get minutes with this squad. However, Javi Galán has made it clear on several occasions that he is willing to work hard to convince Simeone.
The full-back is determined to prove his worth and compete head-to-head with his teammates. Although the competition is tough, Javi Galán is confident that, with effort and dedication, he will manage to get the minutes needed to win over Simeone. He hopes to become a rotation piece for Atlético de Madrid in this new stage.