Football player in Atlético de Madrid uniform raising a finger.

The surprising decision by Atlético de Madrid regarding Thomas Lemar: unexpected

The red-and-white club has made a decision, and the Frenchman already knows his future.

Atlético de Madrid is going through a difficult time after losing the leadership of LaLiga. The Colchoneros, who had achieved a historic winning streak, have drawn their last league match and lost the previous one. This situation, combined with certain economic problems, has led the club to make important decisions, including seeking the departure of Thomas Lemar.

Thomas Lemar's Salary Issue

Atlético de Madrid needs to lighten its wage bill, and Thomas Lemar is in the spotlight. The Frenchman, who joined the rojiblanco club in 2018 as one of the most expensive signings in rojiblanco history, hasn't lived up to expectations. His performance, combined with his inactivity in recent months due to injuries, makes it difficult for the club to find a buyer willing to take on his salary.

A smiling football player wearing an Atlético de Madrid shirt.
Thomas Lemar hasn't managed to succeed at Atlético de Madrid. | Atlético de Madrid

Simeone has always shown confidence in Lemar, highlighting his versatility in midfield. However, the lack of continuity has reduced his role in the Argentine coach's plans. In a market with few options, the rojiblanco management is considering several alternatives to finalize his transfer before the winter window closes.

A Worrisome Streak

The sporting context doesn't help Lemar or Atlético de Madrid either. After their impressive winning streak, the rojiblancos have hit a small slump, with a draw and a loss in their last two matches. This has allowed Real Madrid to pull four points ahead in the standings, a hard blow for a team that aspired to remain leaders.

The lack of options on the bench has been evident, especially in midfield, where players like Lemar could have provided freshness. However, his inactivity has forced Simeone to seek solutions with other players, further highlighting the need to strengthen certain positions.

Uncertain Future for Lemar

Thomas Lemar's contract with Atlético de Madrid remains a significant burden on the club's finances. His high salary, coupled with his modest performance, complicates the possibility of securing a favorable transfer. According to several sources, the club would even be willing to negotiate a loan with an option to buy to facilitate his departure.

Despite everything, Lemar has shown flashes of quality during his time as a rojiblanco. He was an important piece in the achievement of LaLiga 2020-2021, showing solid performance in Simeone's scheme. However, time seems to have run out for the Frenchman, and his future appears far from the Metropolitano.

Atlético de Madrid faces decisive weeks, both in sports and economically, seeking solutions that will allow them to maintain competitiveness at a key moment in the season. Lemar's departure could be just the beginning of a restructuring within the team.