Diego Simeone is the single most important figure in Atletico Madrid’s progress over the past decade. The Argentine coach has had to make many tough decisions, most of which were beneficial for the red-and-whites. While he enjoyed the support of the men in suits, sometimes even they sing different tunes. Namely, the club wants to sell a couple of players Simeone would love to keep. So now what?El Cholo’s students are preparing for their final exam, and two of the youngest among them, Rodrigo Riquelme and Samuel Lino, are gaining widespread attention. During the preseason, the pair of Atletico Madrid wingers impressed their boss Simeone with power, skill, goal-scoring ability, speed, and hunger for success. The head coach praised both players, expressing his desire for them to stay and highlighting their versatility in playing various positions.##NAJAVA_MECA_7412238##The coach’s message is direct and intentional, serving as a signal to the club’s management. Club president Miguel Angel Gil plan to sign a midfielder means they must sell at least two players to balance the team’s budget within La Liga’s financial fair play limits. While Riquelme and Lino are attracting interest from other clubs, Simeone fears that the lack of solid offers could lead to their departure for financial reasons.Lino’s versatility as a left winger and Riquelme’s adaptability to the opposite flank have made them invaluable assets to Simeone. Both players have shown their talents and potential during matches against strong opponents like Manchester City and Real Sociedad during the tour of North America. Their performances have satisfied the coach but also heightened interest from potential suitors.🚨🎙️| Diego Simeone: “I love Lino and Riquelme. Hopefully they can stay.” @diarioas pic.twitter.com/FzGep0expd— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) August 1, 2023 In the upcoming friendly against Sevilla, early on Sunday, Lino and Riquelme have another opportunity to prove their worth and convince the club to keep them. Simeone firmly believes in their abilities and hopes their brilliance on the field will convince Gil to retain them. The spotlight is on these two rising stars striving to secure their positions in Atletico’s squad for the upcoming season.
