One of the keys to this new Atlético de Madrid 24/25 is defensive solidity. A strength that has once again brought to mind the Atlético of Cholo's early years. And all this is based on the consistency achieved by Josema Giménez and the signing of Robin Le Normand, together with greater collective work.
The latter has spoken to the official LALIGA media in the run-up to his first capital derby. The centre-back has been, along with Conor Gallagher, an addition that has fallen into place in Simeone's squad. So much so that in the first seven matchdays he has always been a starter, playing the entire match.
"I felt very comfortable"
Regarding his arrival at the club, he stressed that "I have always felt very comfortable, they have welcomed me as one of them . It is important to wear this shirt and it is special." He also spoke about the successful "Welcome Night", which surprised him, despite having been told what the club's fans were like.
"It will be my first derby in Madrid, although there was also another impressive one in the north. I'm really looking forward to it, it's an important date ." This was the comment made by the Spanish defender, hours before experiencing his first Madrid derby at the Metropolitano.
"Winning a title would be incredible"
Regarding possible nervousness when it comes to distancing ourselves from the top of the table, the defender calls for calm. " We have important players with a lot of quality and we have to keep a cool head. It's a very competitive league, with very strong teams around us and we have to focus on our own."
When asked about the possibility of winning a title, the Spanish national team's starting defender cracks a mischievous smile. " Winning a title would be incredible . You can see the passion in our fans and sharing it with them would be important."
This was the way in which a player who is expected to be a pillar this season ended his statements to the official media. The result in the derby will depend on the group, yes. But, in part, the defensive solidity will come from both Le Normand and Jose María Giménez having their day and being able to sustain the rival attacks.