The Atlético signing that doesn't convince Simeone

Apuesta a este partido aquí

La Liga

1 X 2

Girona Real Betis

21/04/26 21:30:00

2.35 3.40 2.80

 PUBLICIDAD

Cuotas validas al publicarse, sujetas a cambios. Regístrese en bet365, ingrese 5€ o más en su cuenta y conseguirá un 100% de su ingreso válido en créditos de apuesta (hasta 100€). Solo para clientes nuevos. Se aplican las condiciones. Las ganancias no incluyen el importe de los créditos de apuesta. Se aplican premios máximos, restricciones de juego, límites de tiempo y condiciones. Es necesario registrarse.

Johnny Cardoso is causing deep concern at Atlético de Madrid. The American midfielder is far from the level he showed at Real Betis, where he was one of the standout midfielders in LaLiga.

His performance against Rayo Vallecano, in the harsh 3-0 defeat, has intensified the criticisms. He was substituted in the 63rd minute, with the team already losing 2-0, leaving a worrying image. At the Metropolitano, they expected much more from a signing that cost around 25 million euros. The investment is not being reflected on the pitch.

Johnny Cardoso, far from the level he showed at Real Betis

When Atlético de Madrid secured his transfer, the message was clear: strengthen the midfield with a dynamic and physical profile. At Real Betis, Johnny Cardoso offered balance, drive, and attacking ability. He was a midfielder capable of supporting the team defensively and joining the attack with intelligence.

However, that version has not appeared in the red and white team. Injuries have affected his adaptation from day one. An ankle problem kept him sidelined for several months. This hiatus caused him to lose rhythm and continuity in a team that demands immediate consistency.

Atlético de Madrid and LaLiga: an adaptation that has not arrived

So far this season, Johnny Cardoso has only played 15 games and 838 minutes. A low number for a player expected to be a starter.

Diego Pablo Simeone has opted for other alternatives when the squad has been available. Koke has been the usual barometer, while Pablo Barrios has also gained importance when fit.

The Argentine coach needs certainties in a demanding schedule. In LaLiga, the margin for error is minimal, and automatisms are crucial.

Johnny Cardoso has had more presence in recent league matches but a lack of continuity in the Copa del Rey. In that competition, Atlético de Madrid has made a strong commitment and is in the semifinals after thrashing FC Barcelona in the first leg.

His absence in crucial matches sends a clear message. Currently, he is not an undisputed piece.

The midfielder who has yet to get going

Criticism does not only focus on his occasional performance against Rayo. The general feeling is that Johnny Cardoso plays with doubts. He struggles to impose his physique, arrives late in disputes, and does not offer the fluidity he showed at Real Betis. In Seville, he appeared dominant; in Madrid, inconsistent.

The leap to a club with greater aspirations always entails pressure. At Atlético de Madrid, each mistake is magnified. Additionally, the team is going through moments of maximum demand in LaLiga and in Europe. There is no time for lengthy adaptation processes.

The coaching staff continues to believe in his potential. They know the talent is there, but they need it to emerge as soon as possible. However, the fans are starting to become impatient. The contrast between the Johnny Cardoso of Betis and the current one is evident.

There is still a season ahead and room to react. However, the feeling is that the star signing from last summer is far from the initial expectations. If the dynamics do not change in the coming weeks, the debate will grow. Because at Atlético de Madrid, not only the investment is judged but the real impact on the field. Currently, Johnny Cardoso is a worrying unknown for the rojiblanco project.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El fichaje del Atlético que no convence a Simeone