Atlético de Madrid did not have an easy start in the league against Villarreal, showing too many deficiencies in defence. The first half was more even, with chances for both teams, but the home team was closer to victory. One of Simeone's big changes to his starting lineup was Reinildo, who did not show his best form.
The Mozambican defender had not had much of a role during the pre-season, losing his place in the starting line-up. However, he had a great opportunity against the yellow submarine, starting on the left flank and displacing Samuel Lino . His poor performance makes it very clear to Atlético de Madrid that they must strengthen the saga before the transfer market ends.
Reinildo misses an opportunity
During the week, many fans were surprised to see the Mozambican working with the theoretical starting line-up. During the summer friendlies, Reinildo had not been one of the main protagonists in the red-and-white team, being a regular substitute. Both Ilias Kostis and César Azpilicueta had beaten him for the position on numerous occasions this pre-season, leaving his future up in the air.
However, Simeone did not hesitate to try to strengthen the defence in the match against Villarreal and gave him the opportunity on the left flank. Reinildo formed part of the defence while Samuel Lino positioned himself further forward, at the level of Antoine Griezmann . Villarreal knew how to do a lot of damage on that left flank, taking advantage of all the gaps that Reinildo had left.
In fact, he had to go to the bench in the second half, giving way to Nahuel Molina and leaving Samuel Lino to play. On the other hand, the defence showed many errors in general, leaving too much space and conceding very clear chances. Villarreal needed very little to beat Jan Oblak 's goal on two occasions, which could have been more considering the chances created.
Simeone wants to close the squad
In the next few hours, the sale of Joao Felix to Chelsea for 50 million euros and the arrival of Conor Gallagher will be finalised. With the English midfielder, Atlético de Madrid would consider the engine room closed, but there would still be a pending account for the back area. Simeone already warned in a press conference that they have not yet managed to sign the person who should be the future replacement for Mario Hermoso , with Reinildo being the closest.
The intention of the sporting management is to find a defender who can be a regular starter on the left wing throughout the season. There are many names on the table, such as David Hancko or Piero Hincapié, but time is starting to run out for the Colchoneros. Atlético de Madrid continues to make the same mistakes in defence and must stop this bleeding if it wants to compete for titles again.