I’ve been closely following Atleti’s matches recently and noticed that Simeone has made quite a few adjustments to the starting lineup this season. As a long-time fan of Atlético Madrid’s squad, I’d like to share my thoughts on the current starting eleven.
Goalkeeper and Defensive Line Configuration
In goal, Oblak remains the undisputed starter. The Slovenian shot-stopper has maintained excellent form this season, with a save percentage ranking in the top three in La Liga. In defense, Simeone prefers a four-back formation, with Giménez and Savić partnering at center-back, while the full-back positions are typically occupied by Molina and Renan Lodi. However, in recent matches, Reinildo has also earned considerable playing time, indicating the coaching staff is searching for the optimal combination.
Midfield Core Players
The midfield is the soul of Atlético. Koke and Llorente form a double pivot that provides a solid defensive shield for the team, with both players excelling in interceptions and passing ability. De Paul has been impressive in the attacking midfielder role, covering vast areas of the pitch while both organizing attacks and tracking back defensively. The wings are usually handled by Carrasco and Lemar, whose pace and dribbling ability create significant pressure on opposition defenses.
| Position | Starting Player | Backup Option |
|---|
| Double Pivot | Koke/Llorente | Kondogbia |
| Attacking Midfielder | De Paul | Saúl |
| Wingers | Carrasco/Lemar | Correa |
Forward Partnership
Up front, Griezmann’s return has formed a promising partnership with Morata. Grizi’s technique and awareness are unquestionable, and while Morata’s luck sometimes falters, his positioning and work rate remain consistently positive. From recent matches, their chemistry is improving steadily, and I believe their goal tally will continue to rise. Félix serves as Simeone’s super-sub, often bringing surprises when introduced in the final stages of matches.
Simeone’s tactical approach is crystal clear: solid defense, swift counterattacks. This starting lineup fully embodies this philosophy, combining a defensive fortress with high-intensity midfield pressing, then exploiting wing speed and forward pace to attack behind opponents. While the style may not be spectacular, its effectiveness is undeniable, which is key to Atlético’s competitiveness on the European stage.
Personally, I think this lineup’s greatest strength is offensive-defensive balance overall cohesion, with every player understanding their responsibilities clearly. Of course, there’s room for improvement—offensive creativity can sometimes be lacking, particularly against teams that park the bus. I hope Simeone can maintain defensive solidity while granting forward players more freedom, especially in matches like Atlético Madrid vs Barcelona. What aspects of the current starting lineup do you think could be optimized? Feel free to discuss.
