Atlético's star signing in the summer no longer in Simeone's plans

The arrival of Johnny Cardoso was conceived as a future bet in the midfield of Atlético de Madrid. However, the American midfielder has struggled to integrate into Diego Simeone's setup. Since his transfer from Betis, injuries and lack of rhythm have kept him on the sidelines of the colchonero scheme.

A complicated transition

Cardoso landed at Atlético after shining at Betis and signing a contract until 2030. Despite that promising start, the US international has not managed to adapt to the demanding rhythm of the rojiblanco team. His ankle took its toll: an injury prolonged his absence and hindered his progress.

As Atlético regained players to face the league and Champions League, Cardoso returned but without minutes: he was called up for three consecutive games but did not play. In his comeback against Sevilla FC, despite being on the list, he didn't participate; then, against Union Saint-Gilloise, the story repeated with Conor Gallagher ahead; and against Levante UD, starting seemed like an option, but it didn't happen either.

Simeone's dilemma and internal competition

Diego Simeone has built a reliable double pivot with Koke and Pablo Barrios, adding Gallagher as a reliable spark. This foundation brings balance to Atlético de Madrid and leaves little room for inconsistencies. Conversely, Cardoso makes it to the list but doesn't make it onto the field.

The reality, as reported by 'DefensaCentral', is that after playing just 185 minutes in the first three games of the season—before the injury—the midfielder has failed to rediscover his form or his weight in the team. Those minutes were all he had added before the setback. Thus, when Mike Tyson said, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth," we could apply the metaphor: Cardoso received his blow and has since struggled to find his path.

What should he do to regain his place?

To turn this situation around, Johnny Cardoso needs to take three specific steps:

• fully recover his physical rhythm after the injury and demonstrate that he can handle full sessions without setbacks;

• earn Simeone's trust by actively participating in training, showing reliability and character;

• overtake Gallagher in the internal midfield competition and then press Koke and Barrios to secure a starting role.

In practice, the plan involves accumulating minutes as a spark off the bench, then earning a starting position, and eventually becoming a stable piece. However, at Atlético, the transition from the bench to the starting eleven is not guaranteed.

A crucial moment for the future

With Barrios recently injured, an opportunity arises for Johnny Cardoso to show he can shoulder responsibilities. Yet, the midfielder should not expect concessions: at Atlético de Madrid, places are earned through actions, not names.

The bet on the American remains, but his situation is delicate. If he doesn't step up, time will work against him. The red-and-white club values immediate performance, not long-term promises. Cardoso needs to become present, not a hope for the future. The script of his story can still change, but only if he writes it on the field. Johnny Cardoso has the final say.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, De fichaje estrella del Atlético en verano a no contar para Simeone