Atlético de Madrid are having a remarkable start to the season. Only the draws against Villarreal (2-2) and Espanyol (0-0) have slightly affected the start of the season for the colchoneros. In addition to proving their accuracy to score, their excellent shape also highlights their defensive solidity, something that had been lost in previous years.
In this sense, Giménez, Azpilicueta and Robin Le Normand are playing a very special role in the Argentine manager's plans. Alongside them, Reinildo has also been important in certain stretches, while Witsel has had a more limited presence. However, it is Clément Lenglet who has not yet played a single minute so far this season.
Invisible for Cholo
Despite the fact that during the international break there were comments about Clément Lenglet's good shape in training, the Argentine coach has not yet given him a chance. Something that partly shouldn't be surprising given the good shape shown by the defenders already established in the squad. In addition, the French defender arrived at the last minute with a transfer window opportunity to reinforce a line that needed two men.
A less-than-promising scenario for Clément Lenglet, who, despite theoretically having arrived as a substitute for Hermoso due to their common profiles, hasn't played yet. The season is long and it is possibly a matter of time before we see the former Sevilla and Barcelona player playing his first games, but as of today he's still off. The month of September seems to be perfect for this, as Atlético de Madrid will have to face several games in a few days, including midweek.
Javi Galán, Another Ruled Out Player
Javi Galán hasn't had a leading role either, although his case is more special as he was ruled out by Simeone last summer. His failure to leave Atlético deMadrid during the transfer market has turned him into a player who seems like he will not get any minutes until winter, a time by which a new club will be found for him. Therefore, it is evident that he isn't having the presence that he would like, and it doesn't seem that he will retrieve his place from Rodrigo Riquelme and Samuel Lino.
And although he was one of the players who trained during the match against RB Leipzig during the second half, it was clear that he was not going to join the field. Both players, along with Thomas Lemar who is still recovering from several injuries suffered at the beginning of the season, are the ones who have not yet had any minutes. Even Juan Musso, the substitute goalkeeper, has had a presence in LaLiga, making his debut against Athletic Club at San Mamés in a 0-1 victory.