The signing of Robin Le Normand was absolutely necessary for Atlético de Madrid. The red-and-white club had been very weak defensively for several years and needed the addition of a top-quality defender. Simeone had been after the Spanish-French player for some time and this summer his wish to see him in red-and-white came true.
His importance in the team is underlined by the fact that he has played every minute in the first two games of the season. We know the difficulty that new players usually have to get into Simeone's starting XI, but Le Normand is a different case. Against Girona he demonstrated his defensive and ball skills, playing a superb game.
However, a key player last season has been relegated to the bench, Axel Witsel. The Belgian, after his poor performance at Villarreal, saw Giménez, Azpilicueta and Le Normand form the defence, performing at a high level.
A pillar waiting from the bench
In last year's poor defensive season, the only player who performed at a notable level was Axel Witsel. Despite playing out of position, he showed hierarchy and great football intelligence. However, the arrival of Le Normand and the optimal physical condition, for the moment, of Giménez, makes the Belgian the most logical discard.
In the absence of a left-footed centre-back, Azpilicueta has taken on that role, performing at an excellent level. The arrival of Le Normand has brought about something that many people expected, but Witsel will surely get plenty of opportunities. Giménez's constant injuries and the large number of games mean that Simeone must rotate a lot.
Le Normand, a defender without frills
Robin Le Normand doesn't need to make gestures while running, fight with everyone and make passes without looking. He is a powerful centre-back, tactically clever and with good ball handling, who plays for the team and not for the cameras. A committed, hard-working and club player who has landed on his feet at Atlético de Madrid.
Simeone is going to bring out the best version of the man who is already one of the best centre-backs in all of Europe. Robin Le Normand, a simple but effective centre-back.