Many Atlético de Madrid fans think that the squad has been left a little short on defence in this transfer market. The sporting management has brought in two centre-backs, although they have left the squad with four. Therefore, many of the hopes in the red-and-white team are placed on Josema Giménez being able to recover his best form.
The Uruguayan centre-back was back in the starting line-up yesterday against Athletic Club and continues to maintain very revealing statistics. In the last few games in which he has been on the pitch, the Atlético de Madrid team has been a wall in front of his goal. For the moment, Simeone has made several rotations, but it is expected that he will find his starting team after the first international break .
Josema Giménez shows his best version
For a decade, everyone at Atlético de Madrid has been very clear that the Uruguayan is the team's best defender if he reaches his highest level. Injuries have been Josema Giménez's main obstacle when it comes to being consistent and giving confidence to the defence. Yesterday, he was back in the starting line-up in a difficult match and in a stadium that the Colchoneros struggled with last season.
However, the performance could not have been better and the centre-back continues to maintain some very revealing statistics . In the last few games in which Josema Giménez has participated, Atlético de Madrid has not conceded a goal while he has been on the pitch. Since the victory against Mallorca last season, the Uruguayan has given that security to the defence during his last six games.
Josema Giménez must obviously regain his place in the starting eleven after the signing of Robin Le Normand and the great form of Axel Witsel. In fact, his main competition should be the Belgian, as the Spanish international has been the great signing to improve the defensive side. In these first few games, Axel Witsel has left some doubts in defence, especially regarding his speed.
Competition with Axel Witsel
Right now, the only one who seems to be a regular among the centre-backs is Robin Le Normand after showing a great level in these first matches. Josema Gimenez and Axel Witsel will have to compete to occupy the last vacant place, since neither of them has played on the left side . With a performance like yesterday's in Bilbao, it is clear that the Uruguayan has all the credentials to be undisputed under Simeone .
However, we must not forget that Axel Witsel was one of the best players last season, being the best defender in the team. Although he has started with some doubts, the Belgian will be a strong competitor once he has picked up competitive rhythm. Simeone needs to improve his performance in defence and, so far, he has already kept three clean sheets in four games.