The final days of the transfer market at Atlético de Madrid have been full of changes and emotions, and one of the most prominent topics has been the departure of Yannick Carrasco to Al-Shabab. This departure left a big hole in the team’s starting XI, and initially Samuel Lino seemed the natural option to take his place on the left wing. However, Diego Simeone’s recent decisions are changing the picture.
Initially, Samuel Lino was considered the main candidate to succeed Carrasco, as he had similarities to the talented Belgian in position and style of play. Expectations were high for the young Brazilian and his promotion to the first team was seen as a logical step.
Samuel Lino, increasingly unimportant at Atlético de Madrid
However, the latest news suggests Simeone has other plans. The Argentine coach is considering a surprising left-wing alternative that could relegate Samuel Lino to the bench, despite him being the favorite for the position.
The new option Simeone is looking at is adding Rodrigo Riquelme to the starting XI. This young youth player returned to the club after a successful season with Girona FC and although it was initially thought that he would play a minor role, his performances in training caught the attention of the coach.
With Carrasco’s departure, several possibilities open up in Atlético de Madrid’s plan. One of the options Simeone is considering is to give Javi Galán responsibility for covering the entire left wing, allowing Riquelme to play a more prominent role in midfield.
This new strategic direction brings benefits and challenges, and Samuel Lino, who originally wanted to be Carrasco’s natural successor, may find himself in a different situation than he expected. There is uncertainty over who will ultimately be chosen by the Argentine coach to fill the void left by Carrasco.
The upcoming league game could provide definitive answers about Simeone’s approach to this important position. Competition for a place in the starting XI at Atlético de Madrid is heating up and Samuel Lino will have to fight to maintain his role in the team.
