Atlético de Madrid are about to resume competition after the international break. The team from Madrid face Valencia on Sunday at the Cívitas Metropolitano at 9pm. However, a recent decision by Diego Simeone might not be well received by all fans.
During the international break, Simeone has had to work with a reduced squad. The players who were not called up for their national teams have been the core of his training sessions. Among them are Azpilicueta, Giménez, Lenglet, Galán, Witsel, Riquelme, Lino, Llorente, Koke and Correa. This situation has led the Argentine coach to particularly value the work with these players, given that he has had less time to prepare the team with the internationals.
Give many international players a rest
The context is important: Atlético Madrid face a demanding series of matches in the coming weeks. The schedule includes seven games in just 20 days, which means that Simeone will have to make strategic decisions to optimise his team's performance. This pressure has led Cholo to consider prioritising the players who did not go with their national teams for the match against Valencia.
Rather than relying on the majority of the internationals who have returned from their commitments, Simeone seems to be leaning towards those who have been working under his direct supervision. This decision reflects the importance of cohesion and work rate in such a busy phase of the season. Although the internationals have had a double round of matches and, in theory, arrive with competitive rhythm, the coach prefers the recent fitness of the players who did not travel.
Among the players who could be part of the starting eleven are Koke, Llorente, Giménez, Riquelme, Lino, Correa and possibly Witsel or Azpilicueta. The line-up, if confirmed, would highlight Simeone's confidence in those who have spent more time in Madrid and have been able to adapt better to his training methods.
Opportunity for Correa
One of the most notable decisions is the possible starting position of Ángel Correa. The Argentine striker had an outstanding performance in the last matchday, where he scored the winning goal at San Mamés. His performance in training during the break has been excellent, and everything indicates that Simeone will start him against Valencia.
Simeone's choice may generate mixed opinions among Atletico Madrid fans. On the one hand, some might see the decision as a smart strategy to ensure that the team is in top condition and has a solid cohesion. On the other hand, the absence of some internationals who have played for their national teams may be a cause for concern, especially if the players are not at the top of their fitness.