Many of the names that have arrived at Atlético de Madrid this summer have caused some surprise among the red-and-white fans. Conor Gallagher was probably the least likely to be the reinforcement that would arrive at the Metropolitano for the midfield. It should be remembered that Mikel Merino had always been the favourite in the event of a new midfielder being brought in.
It is clear that Conor Gallagher 's signing has been one of the most surreal that can be remembered at Atlético de Madrid in recent years. His debut was not long in coming, playing a few minutes in the victory against Girona that took place in the second matchday of the championship. In addition, he has already earned his first start, demonstrating that Simeone has a lot of confidence in his role this season.
Conor Gallagher earns the praise
By now, most of the signings made by Atlético de Madrid in the summer have already had minutes in the league championship. Conor Gallagher , like many of the reinforcements, has also had his big opportunity as a starter in these first few games. The English international jumped into the starting eleven in the victory of the colchoneros against Athletic Club in Bilbao last Saturday.
So far, he has been able to participate in two matches, leaving very good impressions in both and earning praise from Simeone . Right now, everything points to the fact that the Argentine coach 's idea is to play with three midfielders, with Pablo Barrios being the undisputed one . On the other hand, it seems difficult for Koke to lose his place in the red-and-white team, leaving only one vacant spot in the midfield.
In a match as complicated as the one at San Mamés , Conor Gallagher was the one chosen by Simeone, with Rodrigo de Paul sitting on the bench. It is not going to be an easy season for the world champions, as the competition in the engine room is more demanding than ever. Therefore, he will have to take the step forward that has been asked of him for so long if he wants to continue being an important piece .
The last chance for Rodrigo de Paul
Since Conor Gallagher landed at Atlético de Madrid, everyone was very clear about who was the main person affected by this signing. Rodrigo de Paul has already completed three seasons with the Atlético shirt, giving a very irregular performance. Therefore, in the red and white team they are very clear that this must be the season in which he is able to show all his level.
In addition to the increased competition, the high level that Pablo Barrios has shown makes everything a little more difficult for the Argentine. Added to the usual importance of Koke in Simeone's scheme and the good level of Conor Gallagher , the former Udinese player has no time to waste. For years, Rodrigo de Paul has been required to show the same version as in the matches with the Argentine national team, something that has not yet happened.