‘A lot will be demanded of Atletico Madrid this season.’
The words of coach Diego Simeone on the eve of the 2018/19 La Liga campaign. After a successful summer in the transfer market which has not gone unnoticed by SBOBET followers, the Argentine coach is aware that expectations are increasing.
Now, Los Rojiblancos take to the stage set to continue their disruption of the Barcelona-Real Madrid duopoly.
Key Strengths
Atletico’s strengths were clear for all to see in the way they ruthlessly despatched Marseille in May to lift the Europa League.
That, coupled with a second-place finish in La Liga ahead of city rivals Real, capped a successful season despite a group stage exit in the Champions League.
Then, before the World Cup, came the news their fans had craved.
Delivered in fairly dramatic fashion, star man Antoine Griezmann announced he’s staying put to bring an end to one of the longest-running transfer sagas of 2018.
Other stars like Diego Godin (who has penned a new contract) and Jan Oblak have also remained, while Jose Maria Gimenez has extended his contract.
The recruitment of Thomas Lemar, Gelson Martins—13 goals for Sporting last term—Nikola Kalinic and Rodri Hernandez have caught the eye, particularly Lemar who has joined the club from AS Monaco to much fanfare.
Lemar’s relationship and understanding with Griezmann could be a real asset on the pitch, especially with their talismanic number seven possessing sky-high confidence after the exciting summer of Russia which saw him return to Spain a world champion.
Indeed, Griezmann and Juan Fran have become new club captains, although they remain behind Koke (secondary captain) and Godin (primary captain) in the pecking order (don’t ask me how it works!).
Either way, the announcement that Griezmann is staying at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano is such a boost, and Atletico will be cautiously optimistic they can challenge the established Spanish heavyweights for the title.
Simeone has no right to continue to disrupt their dominance but has largely managed to do so, despite operating in a very different financial market.
Just as a resolute defence will help, Griezmann’s experience will also be vital for a team that many expect to put in a sustained challenge for both LaLiga and the Champions League.
All in all, the Atletico squad looks to be in its best shape for years with Martins and Lemar, in particular, strengthening key areas which needed strengthening.
Ghanaian international Thomas Partey may also be a more consistent performer as he bids for a regular place in the side, possibly ahead of one of the new boys—Rodri perhaps?.
Major Weaknesses and Concerns
Yes, of course, they will miss calling upon the likes of fan-favourites Fernando Torres (now at Sagan Tosu) and Kevin Gameiro (Valencia) from the bench, while outgoing skipper Gabi has also said a fond farewell as he heads to Qatar and Al Sadd.
The other potential downside is the involvement of Griezmann and club and country teammate Lucas Hernandez at the World Cup. They have not had a pre-season and that could prove costly later on in the campaign.
On another note, they should focus on their strengths and not rivals.
Gabi and fans have made quite clear their feelings after their former on-loan goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois joined city rivals Real.
Key Players to Watch
It has to be Griezmann who will be the focal point in this team, but watch out also for Diego Costa.
He had a fine World Cup for Spain and will relish starting the season after only being able to play for the club last term, following his move from Chelsea last January.
Both Griezmann and Costa are excellent at making intelligent runs to draw in defenders and create space for teammates.
Lemar will also be one to watch and could provide many of La Liga 2018 highlights. Simeone will be desperate for him to show the form he displayed for Monaco in 2016/17 when he scored 14 goals to help the club win Ligue 1 and reach the Champions League semi-finals.
Fearless Forecast
Atletico have real talent and experience when you consider the likes of Saul, Angel Correa, Filipe Luis and Stefan Savic have not even been mentioned yet.
They have also now had a season to settle at their new stadium.
With these factors in mind and the La Liga 2018 betting odds appetising, a successful campaign surely awaits. I can see them breaking up the Barca-Real dominance again and repeating the second place of last season.
With a favourable draw, they could even reach another Champions League Final.
It will, however, be difficult if they are to actually win one of the major honours.
Always the bridesmaid, never the bride
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