Should Atletico Madrid sack Simeone?

Published

3 years ago

January 23, 2022

admin

Atletico Madrid used to be a trigger savvy club when Diego Simeone first took charge of the club back in 2011.

The Argentinian replaced Gregorio Manzano, who was dismissed by Los Rojiblancos once before in 2001.

In between Manzano’s two dismissals, nine more head coaches were let go by the Atletico hierarchy.

A chance hiring that paid off

Having spent five years at Atletico as a player, Simeone was no stranger to the Vicente Calderon climate.

As a manager, however, he did not have much European experience.

But, the board decided to take a chance on him anyway. It turned out to be one of the best decisions they ever made.

Atletico finished fifth that year and won the Europa League.

The next season, Atletico overcame their city rivals Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final.

It was Atletico’s first win over Real in 26 competitive meetings. But the real surprise came the season that followed.

Atletico Madrid defied all odds to win the La Liga in 2013/14 and came close to lifting the Champions League as well.

They became the Champions League runner-ups again in 2016, won the Europa League again two years later, and reclaimed the La Liga title in 2021.

He built a winning mentality

Simeone’s tactical approach is not universally admired, but even his harshest critic can’t deny that Simeone has brought about revolutionary changes in the club over the past decade or so.

But, has he taken the club as far as he could? Has ‘’Simeone Ball’’ hit the saturation point?

Atletico’s surprisingly dismal form in 2021/22 begs this question.

Yes, Atletico had won the league only eight months ago under Simeone, but there are countless instances of managerial dismissals months after winning a major silverware.

Modern football is capitalistically brutal, and past achievements barely give managers any elbow room these days.

How bad are we talking?

Atletico Madrid just got kicked out from the Copa del Rey losing to Real Sociedad, they lost the Spanish Super Cup semi-final to Bilbao, and they are 16 points adrift the top spot in the league.

Domestically things are going pretty terrible.

Simeone’s men are still in the Champions League.

But, they were incredibly lucky to make it past the group round as they lost three matches as opposed to their two wins.

The resilience and fight of classic Simeone’s Atletico were rarely present.

Why are Atletico Madrid struggling?

First of all, they are not good going forward.

Antoine Griezmann looks like a shadow of the player who used to terrorise the opposition wearing the Atletico shirt.

Luis Suarez seems set for an exit after falling out with Simeone.

Joao Felix shows bits and pieces of his quality every now and then but his sporadic brilliance doesn’t justify his €127 million price-tag.

Matheus Cunha was brought in for €26m but he didn’t get enough chances to make an impact.

But, it’s Atletico’s form on the other end of the pitch that will be of more concern to Simeone.

Shoddy Defence

Over the years, Atletico have built a reputation for their excellent defending.

In 2015/16, they conceded only 18 goals throughout the season, which happens to be a La Liga record.

This season, they have shipped 24 goals in only 20 La Liga matches.

Last season, the reigning Spanish champions let in only 25 goals in the entire season.

Moving away from his working formula can be cited as the root of this problem.

Diego Simeone has been the most notable user of the classic 4-4-2 in modern football, and it has served him good.

To make the best use of Atletico’s current attacking assets, however, the 51-year-old has been experimenting with some other formations.

In his last five Atletico matches, Simeone has gone for four different formations including a 4-5-1, 3-5-2, 4-4-2, and a 4-2-3-1.

Needs to act fast

We believe it’s still too soon for Diego Simeone to worry about his job at Atletico Madrid.

He has just signed a new three year contract at the club.

Not to mention, he has executive-like powers at the club, thanks to his incredible legacy.

But, Simeone would be well aware of the fact that the tables might turn on him if he fails to stop the rot anytime soon.

FC Goa Triumphs Over Mohun Bagan with a 2-1 Victory

Published

3 days ago

December 21, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan! FC Goa secured a memorable 2-1 victory against Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League at Fatorda Stadium. This high-stakes encounter ended Mohun Bagan’s unbeaten streak, marking a significant moment in the league.

Brison Fernandes opened the scoring for FC Goa in the 13th minute, assisted by Borja Herrera. His shot deflected off Mohun Bagan’s Tom Aldred, giving Goa an early lead. Despite pressing attacks, Mohun Bagan failed to capitalize on opportunities during the first half, keeping FC Goa ahead.

The second half saw Mohun Bagan equalize through Dimitrios Petratos’ penalty, awarded after a handball by Armando. With the match level, momentum shifted briefly in favor of Mohun Bagan. However, FC Goa struck again in the 68th minute as Brison Fernandes headed in Herrera’s precise cross, sealing the lead and eventual victory for the home side. FC Goa defeats Mohun Bagan!

FC Goa’s defense stood firm during the closing stages, with Sandesh Jhingan and Odei Onaindia effectively countering Mohun Bagan’s attempts to find another equalizer. This win elevated FC Goa to third place in the league standings with 22 points from 12 matches, showcasing their strong form this season.

The match underscored FC Goa’s resilience and tactical discipline, while Mohun Bagan will aim to bounce back from this setback. Fans were treated to an exciting contest, reflecting the competitive spirit of the league.

FC Goa

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

FC Goa Host League Leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant in ISL Clash

FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant! The Indian Super League (ISL) promises an intense showdown as FC Goa faces league leaders Mohun Bagan Super Giant this Friday at Fatorda. With playoff positions at stake, both teams are set for a thrilling encounter.

FC Goa aims to break into the top three with a win, continuing their unbeaten six-match streak. Striker Armando Sadiku leads the Goa attack with eight goals in ten matches, while midfielders Iker Guarrotxena and Dejan Drazic add creativity. Young goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari’s three clean sheets in five matches provide defensive assurance. FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan Super Giant!

Mohun Bagan, atop the league with 26 points, has relied on Jamie Maclaren’s scoring consistency and Greg Stewart’s midfield mastery. Although Stewart will miss the match due to injury, the Mariners boast six clean sheets this season, anchored by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith.

Both teams have impressive records, with Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season. The match could define playoff aspirations as Mohun Bagan aims to solidify their position, and Goa seeks to climb the rankings. Fans anticipate a tightly contested game between two strong sides showcasing Indian football’s growing quality.

The match is critical for both teams’ playoff aspirations. FC Goa looks to capitalize on their home advantage and attacking prowess, while Mohun Bagan seeks to extend their dominance at the top of the league. With FC Goa scoring 21 goals and Mohun Bagan conceding only 10 this season, the battle promises to be a showcase of quality football.

Fans are eagerly anticipating this high-stakes clash, which could significantly impact the league’s playoff picture. Both teams have shown resilience and skill, ensuring a thrilling contest.

FC Goa

Mohun Bagan SG and FC Goa Face Off in ISL 2024-25 Thriller

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

Maadhav

Mohun Bagan SG faces FC Goa in a thrilling ISL 2024-25 encounter, promising intense action and crucial league implications.

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 features a highly anticipated clash between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and FC Goa at Fatorda’s Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on Friday. Both teams come into this encounter in solid form, aiming to strengthen their campaigns at a crucial juncture in the season.

Mohun Bagan leads the standings with an unbeaten streak, registering seven wins and a draw in ISL 2024-25. Their defensive strength is evident, having kept six clean sheets. FC Goa, sitting fourth on the table, boasts a dynamic attacking style, with nine different players contributing goals this season.

This battle between Mohun Bagan’s resolute defense and Goa’s attacking versatility promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Goa seeks to overcome the league leaders and secure vital points to narrow the gap. Meanwhile, Mohun Bagan looks to extend its dominance and consolidate its position at the top.

Key players to watch include Mohun Bagan’s defensive stalwarts and Goa’s offensive playmakers. Both sides have demonstrated their capability to adapt to challenging situations, setting the stage for a thrilling contest. With the mid-season point approaching, the match carries significant implications for both teams’ playoff aspirations.

Fans can expect an intense, action-packed game as two of the ISL’s top teams vie for supremacy. Mohun Bagan’s strategic discipline will be tested against Goa’s creative and relentless attacks. This matchup is a must-watch for football enthusiasts, showcasing the best of Indian football talent.