Atlético de Madrid have achieved their first victory of the season after showing a great level at the Metropolitano against Girona. The red-and-whites wanted to improve the image shown in their debut against Villarreal, making their debut in front of their fans this season. The most outstanding player of the colchoneros team was Pablo Barrios, clear dominator of the midfield and helm of the team.
The Atletico youth player yesterday earned his second consecutive start in the engine room, earning Simeone 's trust. He showed great physical condition during the 90 minutes , as well as occupying a large part of the pitch. Given this scenario, it seems unlikely that Pablo Barrios will lose his place in the midfield, although there is still a long way to go in the season.
The MVP
Undoubtedly, the best player for Atlético de Madrid in the victory against Girona was Pablo Barrios, who started in the midfield. The young Spanish midfielder has been one of the most positive aspects of the red-and-white team at the start of the campaign. He was already a starter against Villarreal, taking over from Rodrigo de Paul and providing an assist for Alexander Sorloth .
Simeone did not hesitate and once again opted to start Pablo Barrios , in this case beating Koke . He showed great form, being the team's leader and making it clear that he has the physique that has often been lacking. The last goal for Atlético came after a great run by Pablo Barrios, ending with a goal from the Atlético captain .
The surprise
There is no longer any doubt that Marcos Llorente is going to be one of the best right-backs this season. For the second time in a row he started ahead of Nahuel Molina, scoring his second goal of the season. He was cheered by the Metropolitano after his great goal and is set to be a key player for Simeone .
Needs improvement
More than a specific player, Atlético de Madrid 's biggest problem seems to be just as fragile as last season. Any dangerous action threatens Jan Oblak 's goal, even when the feeling is calm in the red-and-white area. Simeone will need to give that solvency to the rear if he wants to be able to compete for all the titles .
Simeone's game
The Argentine coach made several changes compared to the opening game against Villarreal in all areas of the pitch. The first half was a bit more competitive between the two clubs, with the Atlético team needing a lot of work to find their chances. Riquelme was at a great level and took advantage of the opportunity given to him by Simeone, as did Rodrigo de Paul who was in an interview.
On the other hand, he gave Julián Álvarez a starting role after having already played his first minutes in the red and white shirt on Monday. The changes came at key moments and he brought on Conor Gallagher, who was highly acclaimed by all the fans from the stands. The second half was much better for Atlético de Madrid , showing greater control of the match and more effectiveness in front of goal.