Atlético de Madrid dropped their first points at home after a match in which they had numerous clear chances. Samuel Lino and Julián Alvarez had the clearest chances in the first half, but they were unable to find the goal. However, the best player of the match was Rodrigo Riquelme, who returned to the starting line-up on the left wing.
The youth player showed great performance on the Metropolitano pitch, scoring two very clear goals. In fact, both chances ended up in the goal, but they were ruled out due to offside by the player. Riquelme received praise from the Atlético fans and spoke to the media after the final whistle.
The MVP
It was a new test for Riquelme to convince Simeone that he can be an important player this season. He started as a starter on the left flank, just like against Girona, but managed to take a step forward this time . He always brought danger to Espanyol 's area, something that could never be imitated on the right flank during the first half.
After the break, Riquelme had two chances on target, but they were ruled out for offside. The first was more dubious, but the VAR confirmed that the youth player was a little offside after the error of the opposing goalkeeper. The other goal came near the end, although this time the infringement was much more obvious than in the first.
The surprise
Pablo Barrios continues to show that he should be a starter in Simeone's plans, giving the team a new lease of life with his entry . The Spanish midfielder always looked to break through passing lines and never hesitated to look at goal when he had the chance. He ended up a bit distraught when he couldn't find his way, but it's clear that he will be a key pillar this season.
Needs improvement
Nahuel Molina had a golden opportunity to show that he can still recover his best form at Atlético de Madrid . He started as a starter on the right flank, but his contribution in attack was null, focusing much on defense. He did not come on in the second half, leaving his place to Marcos Llorente who aims to be undisputed in that position.
Simeone's game
Most of the criticism has been directed at the Argentine coach , who made some controversial changes after the break. He opted for rotations after beating Girona , but had to adjust several positions after the first half. The most talked about change was that of Alexander Sorloth , who went to the bench when the match was 0-0.
Simeone tried to change the classic 4-4-3 system, but it didn't last long, returning to a five-man defence. He also surprised by making three changes at once before the second half, when players like Samuel Lino and Julián Alvarez were contributing a lot up front. Now, they will begin to prepare for the difficult trip to Bilbao this Saturday with the aim of going into the break with a different face.