Atlético de Madrid seeks redemption in a crucial derby against Real Madrid.

Atletico Madrid is preparing to face Real Madrid in a derby that promises to be intense and full of emotions, but the atmosphere surrounding the red-and-white team is marked by concern about their performance in offensive play. Diego Pablo Simeone, the team's coach, has acknowledged that the squad needs to improve its attacking capability, an aspect that seems to have been sidelined compared to the defensive solidity that has characterized his management for over a decade.

Last season was a critical moment for Atletico, which showed alarming defensive fragility, being the worst from midfield back during the Simeone era. At the start of this season, although the defense has improved significantly, the team is still struggling to find a balance in its offensive play. Oblak, the Slovenian goalkeeper, has had a standout start to the season, conceding only four goals in seven matches, indicating that the defensive line has regained some of its solidity. However, the lack of creativity and effectiveness in attack remains a recurring theme in "Cholo's" press conferences.

When analyzing the situation, Simeone is optimistic but aware of the work that lies ahead. "It’s a process we are in, looking for what gives us more balance and better combinations," he has stated. The coach's instructions focus on positioning the midfielders and forwards to position themselves behind the opposing midfielders, a strategy aimed at opening spaces and facilitating the ball's arrival to the forwards. Griezmann has been mentioned as the player who best understands this dynamic, making him a fundamental pillar for the attack.

However, despite the victory against Celta de Vigo, Simeone has made it clear that the team must improve in offensive terms. "We have to do better, especially me, finding players who can associate effectively," he asserted. The arrival of reinforcements like Alexander Sorloth and Julián Alvarez has generated expectations, but their performance so far has been inconsistent. The connection between Griezmann and Alvarez has shown flashes of quality, but the integration of both into a more fluid game remains a challenge.

The situation is further complicated by the absence of Pablo Barrios, whose pace and dynamism had brought new life to the midfield. The responsibility now falls on Gallagher, who has proven to be a good finisher and could become a key piece in the team's machinery. Atletico's midfield, composed of De Paul, Koke, and Gallagher, will need to find a way to connect effectively with the forwards to dismantle Madrid's defense.

One of the aspects that Simeone must urgently address is the ball progression from defense. Without the left-footed center-back Hermoso, the team has lost its ability to break lines with precise passes. Giménez has tried to stretch it with long passes, but this has not always been effective against high pressing from opponents. This fact becomes especially relevant in a derby, where Madrid is known for implementing intense pressure.

As the match approaches tonight, fans wonder if Simeone will be able to find the magic formula for his team to adapt quickly and show a more solid offensive facet. The need for a more dynamic and fluid game is evident, and the derby represents not only an opportunity to achieve a positive result but also to cement a playing identity that has been lost in recent times.

Tension is palpable at the Metropolitano, where fans expect a strong response from the team. The pressure is on Simeone and his players, who must prove that they can overcome obstacles and deliver a performance that satisfies their supporters. With hard work ahead and the derby as a backdrop, Atletico Madrid faces a crucial match that could mark a turning point in the season.

The derby is not only a rivalry clash but also a test of character and an examination for an Atletico team looking to redeem itself and establish itself once again as a serious contender in the league. With their focus on offensive play, Simeone hopes his team will step up and showcase the talent they possess, combining defensive solidity with creativity in attack to dazzle their fans and, above all, themselves.