The first player singled out by Cholo Simeone in the preseason

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Arsenal Atletico Madrid

05/05/26 21:00:00

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Diego Pablo Simeone wasted no time in highlighting differences within the dressing room. Following the first preseason test against Porto, where Atlético de Madrid fell despite the debut of several new signings, the focus of the Argentine coach has turned to Conor Gallagher. The English midfielder did not meet expectations, especially in a match that the coaching staff deemed crucial to assess his adaptation to the red and white scheme. His performance in the double pivot raised more doubts than certainties, and Simeone has been clear: he needs much more.

Since his arrival in the summer of 2024, Gallagher has failed to secure a spot in the starting eleven. The emergence of new pieces like Álex Baena and Thiago Almada has intensified the competition, forcing the Englishman to redefine his role on the field. His natural position seems to be shifting towards a deeper area, where his physicality could be useful, but where he still lacks clarity with the ball.

Simeone Targets Gallagher

The issue is not only tactical. Internally, Atlético has started to receive possible offers from Premier League clubs interested in the player. The situation becomes even more complex when considering that Simeone himself has requested midfield reinforcements. In this context, Gallagher clearly falls behind options like Pablo Barrios, Johnny Cardoso, and captain Koke. This summer, the Englishman has been on the radar of Newcastle United and Tottenham, viewing him as an interesting choice following James Maddison's recent injury during preseason.

Conor Gallagher is now at a crossroads: improve his performance or pack his bags before the market closes. The message from the bench is direct and leaves no room for interpretation. Atlético needs an organizer, not a physical player without vision. Time to convince the coach is running out, while there is still a lot of transfer market ahead. Will the Englishman leave? Will a new midfielder arrive at the Metropolitano?

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El primer señalado por el Cholo Simeone en la pretemporada