Atlético de Madrid faces a series of matches in the coming month that will determine if they can compete for any titles this season. The team coached by Diego Pablo Simeone is in second place in LaLiga, just one point behind Real Madrid. In the Champions League, the red-and-whites are awaiting their opponent in the round of 16, following their great first phase.
As for the Copa del Rey, it has recently been announced that Barcelona will be their opponent in the semifinals. Diego Pablo Simeone needs all his players fully engaged, and it seems he has managed to bring Samu Lino into the fold. However, this has caused Conor Gallagher to lose much prominence in recent weeks.
Gallagher Loses Prominence in Atlético de Madrid
For much of the season, Conor Gallagher had settled on the left wing, forming a good partnership with Javi Galán. His defensive work, physical presence, and ability to help in pressing were well appreciated by Simeone, who trusted him for many key matches.
However, the emergence of Samu Lino has changed everything. The Brazilian has taken advantage of every opportunity he has had and, with great performances, has convinced the Argentine coach that he deserves to be a starter. His turning point came in the match against Sevilla, where in just 15 minutes he scored and provided an assist, being decisive in the comeback. From there, Lino has continued to deliver outstanding performances and has been key in recent matches.
Samu Lino Earns Simeone's Trust
If there is something Diego Simeone values in his players, it is sacrifice and adaptability. Samu Lino has shown that he is not only an unbalancing winger but can also contribute defensively and be tireless in pressing. It seems he is regaining the level that led him to be chosen as the best player of Atlético de Madrid last season.
The situation for Conor Gallagher is not easy. He has gone from being a key piece to a rotation player, and regaining his position seems complicated. The Englishman will have to take advantage of the opportunities he gets and show Simeone that he can offer something different to the team.