Atlético de Madrid has already trained this morning in Majadahonda to move past the recent setback against Villarreal and focus on the important visit to Salzburg. The Rojiblancos want to definitively secure their direct passage to the round of 16 of the Champions League against one of the weakest opponents in the entire competition. However, the controversy over the penalty called on Reinildo yesterday hasn't yet subsided, as it is going to be much talked about.
It is true that the Mozambican's tackle is reckless, as it increases the chances of making a mistake and committing the foul. Even so, he clearly touches the ball before bringing down a Gerard Moreno who would be responsible for converting the penalty just afterward. It was not an easy match for the Colchonero full-back, who might see a new rival arrive to compete for the starting position.
Reinildo Loses the Opportunity
Obviously, the penalty action was the most significant of yesterday's match between Atlético de Madrid and Villarreal at the Metropolitano. The Yellow Submarine didn't threaten Jan Oblak's goal, scoring thanks to that action in which Sánchez Martínez called a foul. Watching the footage, there is no doubt that Reinildo touches the ball before bringing down Gerard Moreno, although that mattered little.
Outside of that isolated action, the reality is that the Mozambican struggled a lot having to cover the Spanish striker, being outplayed on too many occasions. The injury to Javi Galán seemed to open a door for him, especially after the great level he had shown against Bayer Leverkusen. However, he wouldn't come out in the second half, and his position would be taken by a César Azpilicueta who provided much more security to the defense.
Zinchenko Enters the Race
Just before the kickoff, several reports from England indicated that the main target for Atlético de Madrid in this winter market is the Ukrainian international. The player would be looking for a way out of Arsenal and the formula being considered in the Metropolitano offices is a loan with an option to buy. Zinchenko would be perfect for Simeone, as he can occupy several positions and represents a quality boost on the left flank.
Additionally, he could allow Conor Gallagher to change his position and return to playing inside, where he showed his best level at Chelsea and the England national team. He is a player who can provide immediate performance to the Colchonero team, as ball distribution is one of his specialties. We will have to stay tuned in the coming days, as the transfer window will close in early February, requiring the negotiation to accelerate.