One of the main problems that Madrid´s Atlético will have to deal with from January onwards is the multiple renewals. The sports management is not only looking at those players whose contracts are ending, but also those that end in 2026. Obviously, a decision like this will be defined by the level of each of the different players.
One of them is Reinildo, who has never renewed with the red-and-white team after landing in January 2022. This season he has remarkably improved in comparison to the previous one, when he was back from his knee injury. He has had an unexpected competition with Clemen Lenglet, but he hopes to convince Simeone to continue as a Madrid´s Atlético player[colchonero, sic].
Reinildo, Renewal or Departure
The Mozambican has few options, as his contract expires next summer. For the moment, the short transfer window that FIFA wants to open in June before the Club World Cup is hanging in the air. Beyond that measure, which hasn't been decided, it's clear that the Mozambican international will be one of the big doubts this season.
He has improved his performance since last season, when he returned from his knee injury in December. At that time it was clear that he needed to get back into rhythm, but he was able to gain minutes in the following weeks. The departure of Mario Hermoso allowed him to occupy that position, while Clement Lenglet didn't seem to be a serious threat.
However, the situation has completely turned around and the Frenchman is starting to be much more of a starter than Reinildo in Simeone's plans. Since his debut against Real Sociedad he has shown great form and has made several consecutive starts. They are players with different skills, but it's clear that the former Lille player is a few steps behind right now.
Simeone must decide
The reality is that as soon as January arrives, any team will be able to negotiate freely with the Mozambican defender. At Atlético de Madrid they are hesitating whether to renew his contract for another season or look for a replacement next summer. Right now, the roadmap is based on looking for young players with potential for the future of the club.
There are four central defenders who could leave the squad in 2025, as César Azpilicueta and Axel Witsel also end their contracts. On the other hand, Clement Lenglet would end his loan period and would've to return to FC Barcelona in July. In this scenario, as happened last season, it will be the sporting management and Simeone who must decide the future of all of them.