Predicting the Stars, Breakouts, Disappointments at Atletico Madrid in 2016/17

The 2016/17 campaign got off to a slow start for Atletico Madrid on Sunday, when a last-gasp equaliser from Alaves’ Manu Garcia turned what looked certain to be three points into one point in a 1-1 draw.

Diego Simeone was criticised for naming a slightly-too-defensive side, which negated his side’s attacking talents and showed just how different Atletico are in ethos to both Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Both of those sides enjoyed big opening victories, but despite the poor start, you can expect Atletico to be hot on their heels for the majority of the campaign.

But what else can we expect from them over the course of the season?

Here are some of the stars, breakout talents and disappointments who could reveal themselves over the course of the campaign.

   

Stars

Antoine Griezmann

After a remarkable summer with France in the European Championship, Antoine Griezmann was suspended for the opening clash with Alaves, and as a result we saw just how much the team suffers without him.

The French star will be looking to move his game onto a new level in 2016/17, with a clear target of 22 La Liga goals to beat, seeing as that was his total in each of the last two seasons.

With compatriot Kevin Gameiro added to the side this summer, Griezmann will get attacking support and will surely get more chances that way, and it is impossible to escape the notion that his team’s fortunes rest on his shoulders.

   

Nicolas Gaitan

The summer signing from Benfica managed 11 goals in all competitions for the Portuguese club last season, and if he can get anywhere near that tally in this campaign then he will have made a huge difference to a side always in need of extra firepower.

The Argentinian has been a player tipped for stardom for a while now, and having finally got his big move at the age of 28, he seems primed to take the opportunity to shine.

Earning the trust of Simeone might take a while, with “Cholo” often preferring midfielders who can do more of a defensive job, but if he gets there then he could well prove to be a shrewd addition.

   

Saul Niguez

After taking the giant leap from promising youngster to important member of the first team last season, Saul Niguez looks to be taking another step towards being a vital player for Simeone this time around.

Memories of his wonderful goal against Bayern Munich in the semi-finals …

continue reading in source www.bleacherreport.com