Atlético de Madrid completed their final training session in Majadahonda yesterday afternoon before facing Espanyol today. Simeone has approved a starting line-up that is said to be full of changes compared to the win over Girona. The main new addition is Conor Gallagher, who will start in the starting eleven from midfield after making his debut on Sunday.
The English midfielder left a very good impression in the minutes he was on the pitch against the Catalan team. The only thing Simeone asked of him before making his debut was intensity, something he showed from the first minute. It seems that the Argentine coach has been delighted with the former Chelsea player's letter of introduction and will give him his big opportunity tonight.
Conor Gallagher wins over Simeone
Even before his signing was officially announced, everyone who knew the Englishman spoke wonders about his style of play. In fact, many voices in England explained that he was a perfect fit for Simeone's way of understanding football. Conor Gallagher's debut was not long in coming and he was able to play a few minutes in the victory against Girona last Sunday.
After a few training sessions, everything seems to indicate that Simeone will give him a chance as a starter against the Spaniard. The idea of the rojiblanco coach is to make some rotations as they have a very difficult match this Saturday in Bilbao . According to yesterday's practice, he would be accompanied in the midfield by Koke and Rodrigo de Paul , who was a starter in the last matchday.
At Atlético de Madrid they are aware that there will be great competition in the midfield during this season. Pablo Barrios is set to be a substitute after having been a starter in the first two games, while Koke will start again after scoring his first goal of the season. In this scenario, Conor Gallagher , who has become one of the fans' great idols, will try to take advantage of his opportunity.
Antoine Griezmann joins the rotations
Another of the big changes that Simeone is planning for today's match would take place in the attacking area. Julián Álvarez would start again as a starter , just as he did against Girona, although with a new partner. Antoine Griezmann would start the match from the bench, being replaced in this case by Alexander Sorloth .
The Norwegian striker started against Villarreal and opened his scoring account with a great header before the break. He also had a few minutes against the Catalan club, although he was unable to create any clear chances. Simeone knows that it will be very important to be able to have all the players at 100% in a longer than usual campaign.