Under Diego Simeone, Atlético de Madrid has been a team characterised by its tactical discipline and a strong defence. In that system, Stefan Savic was for years a pillar in the red-and-white defence, however, this season, the story changed. Simeone decided not to renew the Montenegrin centre-back, a decision that generated some controversy among Atlético de Madrid fans. Now, current events have shown us a new side to Savic in his time at Trabzonspor, and not exactly the brightest.
Stefan Savic, who played for Atlético de Madrid for eight seasons, left the club at the end of last season. Although he was a key player in the team's recent successes, including La Liga titles and strong performances in the Champions League, Simeone opted not to renew his contract. His departure, although painful for some supporters, seemed a logical decision in the context of a team that seeks to rejuvenate its squad and adapt to the challenges of modern football.
New home in Türkiye
Savic found a new home at Trabzonspor, one of Turkey's biggest clubs. His immediate goal with his new team was to qualify for the group stage of the UEFA Conference League, a European competition that has gained in importance in recent years. However, what seemed like a sure path to qualification turned into a nightmare.
Trabzonspor was up against Saint Gallen, a Swiss team that was, on paper, inferior to the Turkish side. After a draw on aggregate, everything was decided in a penalty shoot-out. In such situations, the experience and mettle of a player like Savic are often crucial. However, fate had other plans.
Eliminated from European competition
Stefan Savic was the only Trabzonspor player to miss his penalty. His shot, too tight, crashed off the crossbar, knocking Trabzonspor out of European competition. An irony of fate when you consider that this same player was discarded by Simeone, who has always been known for prioritising defensive security.
At Atlético Madrid, the defence has continued to function effectively, even after Savic's departure. Simeone has managed to renew his defence with younger players, keeping the team in contention for titles both domestically and internationally. For his part, Savic will have to deal with the consequences of his mistake, in a team that now has no chance of competing in Europe.