As Atletico Madrid prepare to face Girona next Sunday, Simeone faces significant uncertainty in his tactical planning. The question surrounding who will fill the midfield position between Koke Resurrección and Pablo Barrios has generated a great deal of interest and some confusion. This is especially considering the recent performances of Rodrigo De Paul.
Atlético have held closed training sessions at the Metropolitano to define the line-up that will take to the field against Girona. Although Simeone seems to have a clear idea of the general formation he wants to implement, the choice of midfielders has been a recurring topic of debate. During the first sessions of the week, Koke was the main sacrifice in favour of a line-up that included Barrios alongside De Paul.
Changes in the XI
However, in the final training session on 23 August, Simeone surprised by changing the midfield pairing. Instead of Barrios, the preferred option was Koke alongside De Paul, a decision that raises several questions, especially given De Paul's recent performances. The Argentine midfielder performed well below his usual level, leading many to question his inclusion in the starting eleven.
Simeone's approach seems to reflect the importance the coach places on the experience and leadership of Koke, who has been a pillar in midfield. Koke's presence alongside De Paul, despite the latter's recent poor performances, could be motivated by the need for stability and cohesion.
Meanwhile, Barrios, who has shown great potential and has been one of the standout players in training, could be the big sacrifice in this scheme. His youth and energy have been valued, but it seems that Simeone is still not completely convinced of his ability to be a starter in such a high-profile match.
Simeone gives Julian a chance
The situation is also complicated by other decisions that Simeone must make. Axel Witsel and Alexander Sorloth, who were replaced during the game against Villarreal, do not seem to have a guaranteed place in the starting eleven for the next match. Witsel's lack of performance and Sorloth's limited participation in the game are forcing Cholo to consider other options.
Simeone's possible XI against Girona could look like this: Oblak in goal, with Le Normand, Azpilicueta and Giménez in the centre of defence. Wings for Riquelme and Marcos Llorente, accompanied by Lino, Koke and De Paul in the middle. Up front, for goals, Antoine Griezmann and Julián Alvarez.