Under Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid has been a team that has managed its squad with precision, combining talent and discipline. However, not all of its signings have performed at the expected level. This is the case of Thomas Lemar, one of the most expensive signings of the Simeone era, who today has no place at Atlético Madrid.
Thomas Lemar joined Atlético Madrid in 2018 from Monaco for a transfer worth around 70 million euros. The Frenchman was expected to become a key part of Simeone's system, bringing creativity and balance to the midfield. However, his performances have been far below expectations. Despite some flashes of quality, Lemar has never really settled into the starting eleven, and his contribution has been more than modest compared to the investment made.
Without minutes or opportunities
This season, Lemar's situation has become even more delicate. He has been a recurring absence from the squad, as was evident in Atlético de Madrid's recent match against Athletic Club in Bilbao. This exclusion seems to be a clear message that the club, led by Gil Marín, is actively seeking a way out for the French player.
Simeone himself, in a recent press conference, hinted that the Atlético de Madrid squad is practically complete. However, this does not exclude the possibility of last-minute departures. Gil Marín's intention to find a new destination for Lemar responds to the need to free up salary space.
Departure with economic objectives
Lemar's current situation puts Atlético de Madrid at a crossroads. On the one hand, his departure would relieve the financial pressure on the club, but on the other, it would leave a gap in the squad that, in theory, should be filled. However, with most of the markets closed, the options of placing him in another club are reduced to leagues such as the Portuguese, the Dutch or the Saudi.
These late transfer markets are often a window of opportunity for teams like Atlético de Madrid, who are looking to get rid of players who are underperforming. However, it is also a risk, since any move made at this time limits the club's ability to react if something does not go as planned.