Struggling Atletico Madrid trail behind in La Liga competition following a subpar opening performance
In the world of Spanish football, Atletico Madrid are currently facing a challenging start to their 2021-2022 season. The team, coached by Diego Simeone, has seen a mix of new arrivals this season, with Thiago Almada and Matteo Ruggeri joining the ranks. However, one of their most exciting summer signings, Alex Baena, is currently injured.
Antoine Griezmann, a key player for Atletico Madrid, did not start the first two matches of the season. It remains unclear who Simeone has used as a replacement during this period, as no specific details are available.
Atletico Madrid started their season with a loss and a draw. This poor performance has been a cause for concern, as it marks their worst start to a season since 2011. The team's defensive struggles have been evident, with Girona, one of their upcoming opponents, having conceded 7 goals in their last two matches, continuing their defensive woes from last season.
Meanwhile, other teams are thriving. Five teams, including Villarreal, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Getafe, and Athletic Bilbao, are currently tied for the top spot in the standings. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal has been making waves, taking the most shots at goal out of any player this season, in an attempt to improve his finishing.
Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, a forward, made a significant impact in his substitute appearance against Real Oviedo. He is expected to return against Mallorca and aims to secure a spot in his coach's starting lineup. A strong performance against Mallorca could help Real Madrid and Barcelona move further ahead in the standings, should Atletico Madrid fail to win against Alaves.
Atletico Madrid will face Alaves, who have one win and one defeat in their opening matches. Alaves will undoubtedly pose a formidable challenge for Atletico Madrid, who are under pressure to turn their season around. The upcoming weekend promises an exciting lineup of matches, with Elche and Levante, Valencia and Getafe, Alaves and Atletico Madrid, Real Oviedo and Real Sociedad, Girona and Sevilla, Real Madrid and Mallorca, Celta Vigo and Villarreal, Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao, Espanyol and Osasuna, and Rayo Vallecano and Barcelona scheduled to play.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how Atletico Madrid will navigate these challenges and reclaim their position among the top teams in Spanish football.
