Diego Pablo Simeone is still mulling over the starting line-up he will put out on the pitch this Sunday against Valencia. After the international break, everything points to the red-and-white team undergoing some changes compared to the last matchday. One of the main objectives of the Argentine coach is to find a replacement for Pablo Barrios, who has returned to Spain with a muscle injury.
At the moment, there are only three fit midfielders in the Atlético squad who are available to Simeone . However, in view of the match against the Valencian club, it seems that he could return to a plan with two attacking midfielders. At least, that is what Samuel Lino has tried in yesterday's training session, changing his position again.
Pablo Barrios sparks a revolution
The next match against Valencia is a tricky game, as the Metropolitano still remembers what happened with Espanyol.Simeone is aware that September will be a very demanding month and is thinking of making some rotations this Sunday. His main mission is to find a substitute for Pablo Barrios , who could be out for up to a month.
Initially, it seemed that Atlético de Madrid would return to using three midfielders in their formation, just as they did in Bilbao . However, according to Simeone 's latest test, Samuel Lino seems to be the one chosen to modify his position on the field. The Brazilian player would start closer to the rival area again, giving up the left wing to Rodrigo Riquelme .
It should be noted that Samuel Lino has occupied that position of attacking midfielder in other matches this season, leaving good impressions. Obviously, the Brazilian aims to be the starting extrem in the plans of the rojiblanco coach, but it is a special duel. The international break and the absence of Pablo Barrios force the rojiblanco team to have to make certain modifications in its approach.
Javi Serrano returns to the scene
The Atletico youth player has already had many minutes during the preseason, despite not having the expected role in Austria . During the summer friendlies, Javi Serrano became a starter under Simeone and was once again an important piece. Currently, he is part of Fernando Torres ' squad in the Atletico youth categories, but it is not a permanent fixture.
Yesterday, Simeone tried out the young midfielder as a starter alongside Koke in the engine room, something very striking. Pablo Barrios' injury seems to have opened a new vacant spot that Javi Serrano hopes to fill in the coming weeks. It is important to bear in mind that he already made his debut with the first team in a match against Granada corresponding to the 2021-22 season.