Simeone's decision: Five names, one starting spot

Published on: 06 June 2020

Diego Simeone has just one week to figure out his starting line-up for Atletico Madrid's first match back in LaLiga Santander.

Los Rojiblancos travel to San Mames to face Athletic Club on June 14 still with a few places up for grabs in El Cholo's team.

Those guaranteed a starting place are Jan Oblak, Kieran Trippier, Renan Lodi, Thomas Partey, Saul, Koke, Diego Costa and Alvaro Morata.

Despite Felipe's form before the break in the season, Stefan Savic and Jose Gimenez are expected to start at centre-back.

That leaves one spot in midfield to fill and, should Angel Correa not be fit enough to play against Athletic Club, Simeone has plenty of other options.

Marcos Llorente

Although it was almost three months ago now, Llorente's exploits at Anfield in the Champions League are still fresh in the minds of everyone associated with Atletico.

If he were to start alongside Thomas in the centre of midfield against Athletic Club, it would force Saul out to the left.

Vitolo

Although Llorente got two against Liverpool, Vitolo is perhaps the biggest goal threat among those vying for the final midfield place.

The Spaniard would bring pace, close control and good finishing to the team if he were to be given a starting berth on the left of midfield.

Yannick Carrasco

Like Vitolo, the Belgian would provide a more dynamic, attacking option on the left wing if he were to start against Athletic.

Carrasco hasn't had the chance to prove whether he deserves a second chance at Atletico since re-joining in January.

Thomas Lemar

The Frenchman could well be heading into his final matches as an Atletico player ahead of a potential summer exit.

Nevertheless, Simeone still values his exceptional technical ability with the ball and his defensive work rate without it.

These qualities could see him squeeze into the starting line-up on the left wing.

Hector Herrera

The former Porto man hasn't quite enjoyed the game time he would've hoped for following his arrival at Atletico last summer.

The all-action nature to his game and his considerable goal threat are qualities that Saul already possesses and, as a result, it's unlikely that he'll feature from the start at San Mames.

Source: m.allfootballapp.com

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