Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid midfielder wants Lionel Messi to join the club: “Let him come”
Paris Saint-Germain’s elimination from the UEFA Champions League at the hands of Bayern Munich was a reminder to the world of football that money can not buy titles. Despite harbouring some of the game’s biggest names, the Parisians were outplayed by the German champions.
The elimination has thrown the futures of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, and Neymar Jr into doubt once again. Messi’s contract expires at the end of the season and is being linked with a potential exit in the summer.
Amidst this, Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul was quizzed about the Argentine legend’s future by El Larguero earlier this week, and he did not hold back in inviting Messi to Civitas Metropolitano, saying:
“Does Lionel Messi have doubts about renewing with PSG? Well, let him come to Atlético de Madrid!”
De Paul and Messi are teammates at the international level and were key cogs in their FIFA World Cup 2022 triumph. The two share a great bond, but despite the Atletico Madrid star’s invitation to the seven-time Ballon d’Or, a move to Atletico Madrid is just a fantasy.
The World Cup winner is said to be contemplating a return to Spain next season. However, in such a scenario, he will likely return to Barcelona to spend the final years of his career at the club of his life. A move to Madrid is practically impossible.
At 35 years of age, the record Ballon d’Or winner has scored 13 goals and provided 13 assists in just 22 league appearances for PSG this season. He continues to be one of the best players in the world and was recently awarded FIFA’s The Best Men’s player award.
Meanwhile, Rodrigo De Paul has seen an improved run of form for Los Rojiblancos in recent weeks. He has started five of Atletico Madrid’s last six games across all competitions and provided one assist in that duration.
In the bigger picture, the World Cup winner averages 1.4 key passes per game for Diego Simeone’s side and has created seven big chances so far in La Liga. Defensively, he averages close to five defensive actions per game including three duels won.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
