Atlético de Madrid have had a transfer market full of ups and downs, and one of the names that has been marked in the negative balance is that of Arthur Vermeeren. The young Belgian midfielder joined the team in January 2024, from Antwerp, for a fee close to 25 million euros.
Vermeeren was expected to bring creativity and solidity to Atletico's midfield under Diego Simeone. However, the reality has been very different, leaving the club and fans feeling disappointed.
The failed signing of Vermeeren
Since his arrival, Vermeeren has failed to adapt to the pace and demands of Atlético Madrid. Injuries, combined with a lack of minutes, have limited his impact on the team. Despite his potential, the young Belgian player has not been able to establish himself as a key player in Simeone's system. His lack of prominence and inability to adapt quickly to Spanish football have led the club's management to rethink their investment.
In an attempt to rectify the situation, Atlético decided to loan Vermeeren to RB Leipzig until the end of the 2024-2025 season. The agreement includes a purchase option of 20 million euros, which will depend on the number of games the player plays for the German team. This loan is seen by many as an attempt by the club to recoup part of the investment made.
The emergence of Conor Gallagher: a clear contrast
While Vermeeren has struggled to find his place at Atlético, another midfielder has shone in a very short space of time. Conor Gallagher, who arrived at the club in the summer of 2024, has shown in just three weeks what Vermeeren could not in six months. Since his debut, Gallagher has shown a surprising adaptation to Simeone's style of play, becoming a fundamental piece for the team.
In his first game as a starter, Gallagher played 70 minutes and left a very positive impression. His combination of quality, talent, physicality and intensity has captured the attention of Simeone and the fans. Gallagher perfectly embodies the type of player that the Argentine coach values: a tireless midfielder, capable of both defending and attacking.
The contrast between Gallagher and Vermeeren is clear and highlights the importance of a good adaptation in a team as demanding as Atlético de Madrid. While one has been loaned out in search of minutes and confidence, the other has taken the reins of the midfield in record time.