Diego Simeone has said new signings Julián Álvarez and Conor Gallagher need time to adjust to Atlético Madrid after the pair featured in the club’s 3-0 LaLiga win over Girona on Sunday.
Alvarez, who joined from Manchester City this summer, made his first start for Atlético in the game at the Metropolitano, playing 81 minutes as a centre-forward, while midfielder Gallagher – who finally arrived from Chelsea last week – made his debut as a substitute in the 58th minute.
Atlético has invested heavily in the transfer market. Summer signings Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sørloth were also in action on Sunday, as the club wants to fight for the La Liga title with Real Madrid and Barcelona.
“(Gallagher) came with a lot of energy,” Simeone said in his post-match press conference when asked about the England midfielder’s debut. “That’s what we expect from him. He needs a bit of time to get used to his opponents and his teammates. With his enthusiasm and passion, we have to help him so that the adrenaline is positive for the team.”
Álvarez, who scored 11 Premier League goals for City last season, is Atlético’s biggest summer signing, with Simeone saying the club are “convinced” the Argentina international will deliver, whether as a centre-forward or elsewhere.
“We know what Julian has and what he can give us,” said Simeone. “We will try to use his qualities, whether as a centre-forward, second striker or on the wing. We are convinced that we have an incredible player for the present and the future.”
“At River (Plate) he was number nine, with Argentina he was number nine at the World Cup. At City (Erling) Haaland is there, they shared (the position) or he played wide. He can play in different positions… We have him and Sørloth. I have to find out.”
Atlético hosts Espanyol at the Metropolitano in its next LaLiga match on Wednesday.
