Atletico Madrid have started the season on the right foot, moving into third place in La Liga after four games without defeat. However, not all of Simeone's transfer decisions have turned out as expected . One of the most notable cases is that of Arthur Vermeeren, who cost €22 million and was loaned to Leipzig after failing to convince the Argentine coach. Meanwhile, Javi Serrano, a youth-team player who has yet to play this season, could get his chance against Valencia.
Rubén Uría, on his Twitch channel , revealed that Simeone prefers Javi Serrano in the squad over Vermeeren. This preference highlights Simeone's trust in local talent and shows that not all high-dollar signings manage to fit into his scheme. Vermeeren , although promising, did not find his place in the team and had to seek development in the Bundesliga.
Serrano could have minutes
Serrano has not been included in Simeone's starting line-ups in the first few games of the season, but that could change. According to AS, Simeone has tested Serrano in recent training sessions as a possible starter against Valencia. The absences of Conor Gallagher and Rodrigo De Paul , both with their national teams, open the door for Serrano to prove his worth in the first team.
Arthur Vermeeren , who arrived with high expectations, failed to convince Simeone, leading to his loan move to Leipzig. This move shows that, for Atlético, adaptation and the ability to contribute immediately are key to staying in the squad. Vermeeren's loan indicates that the club still believes in his development, but not in the short term with the red-and-white team.
The patience of the youth player
Javi Serrano has shown patience and has waited for his chance in Atlético's reserve team. With his possible inclusion in the match against Valencia, he will have the chance to show that he can be a valid option for Simeone in midfield. Simeone's preference for Serrano reinforces the club's commitment to young talents and those trained in the youth academy, something that has been a constant in Atlético's philosophy.
The upcoming game against Valencia will be crucial for Serrano, who is looking to establish himself in the first team. In the meantime, Vermeeren will continue his development in the Bundesliga, hoping to return to Atletico and justify the investment in his signing. Ruben Uria has made it clear that, for Simeone, the youth team remains a safe bet.