The Atlético de Madrid fans had been engaged in a heated debate on social media for several days regarding the team's goalkeeper. Several fans believed that Jan Oblak should be the starting goalkeeper in the Copa del Rey semifinals. Meanwhile, another part of the fanbase argued that Musso's good performance in this competition has earned him the spot.
Simeone was asked about this in a press conference and didn't hesitate for a second to respond. "Juan will play, for sure," Simeone stated in the pre-match press conference, making it clear that the Copa del Rey remains Musso's exclusive territory.
Musso Consolidates in the Copa del Rey
Simeone's decision is not new, but it does have a significant impact, as it means that Oblak, undisputed in LaLiga and the Champions League, will once again watch a match from the bench. However, Musso's performance in the Copa justifies the coach's confidence. The Argentine has played all the tournament matches, with an impeccable record of five victories and only one goal conceded.
Additionally, he was the starter in a LaLiga match when Jan Oblak was unavailable. It was none other than at San Mamés, where the Argentine managed to keep a clean sheet. Moreover, the team secured the victory in the last minute, adding more value to Juan Musso's performance.
Oblak Remains Undisputed... But Not in the Copa
That Oblak won't play against Barcelona in such an important knockout match has surprised many, but it's not the first time Simeone has kept a specific goalkeeper for a competition. Despite this decision, the Slovenian remains the undisputed starter in LaLiga and the Champions League. This reinforces the idea that Musso is Cholo's trusted man only for the Copa.
Furthermore, the Argentine's good performance could influence his future at the club. Let's remember that Musso arrived on loan from Atalanta, and his continuity at Atlético will depend on whether the team decides to extend his loan or even make a permanent purchase.