Even if Atletico Madrid had a more consistent second half of the season, figuring out which players are crucial and what system works, Los Colchoneros are still in for an uncertain summer. Their summer transfer window will be heavily reliant on exits.
They will search for a new central midfielder if Thomas Lemar or Saul Niguez go because Geoffrey Kondogbia is leaving this summer. Although Kang-In Lee of Real Mallorca is well-liked at the Metropolitano, it is uncertain what position he would fill just now because he hasn't frequently played one that is comparable to any of those three at Atletico.
What will happen with Joao Felix is the big unknown. The fact that Chelsea does not want him back has been established, and it appears unlikely that any team will agree to pay his nine-figure asking price. However, neither Diego Simeone nor Atletico Madrid want him to return. They'll consider suggestions for Felix.
They might aim to hold onto Yannick Carrasco as one player. Simeone is reportedly attempting to convince Carrasco to stay in the previously planned for sale property. Alvaro Morata has been mentioned as a potential exit in recent weeks, but if he stays, no forward will be added.
Manu Sanchez, Sergio Camello, Rodrigo Riquelme, Samuel Lino, and other returning loanees will all start preseason with Los Rojiblancos, but the Brazilian winger has the best chance of sticking because of the roles he may play, particularly that of Carrasco.
Those returning players might contribute significantly the following season, assuming Atletico Madrid decides to maintain them. Atletico Madrid's system was generally dysfunctional and unclear during the first half of the season. However, some of that was also because of injuries, so it's important to make sure they have the depth to contend on all fronts.
Riquleme, Camello, and Manu, especially Paulo on loan at Sao Paulo, have the potential to be GREAT team players. He definitely didn't have much time to establish himself in Europe! But NONE OF THESE OPTIONS ARE UP TO THE STANDARD OF WINNING ANY TROPHY. All these players, plus Barrios and perhaps even Mollejo (who can play full back as well), would be a cheaper choice. If so, they would grow with game time and could be sold next season if money is needed. How can he be a starter when Busquets won't be playing in the league next year and Witsel has already retired?
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