Following the departure of Diego Costa to Chelsea last summer – one of the worst kept secrets in our title run-in the previous season – speculation was rife as to who Atleti would choose to fill his boots in 2014/15.
Over the last few years, the red and whites have earned a reputation for their fantastic frontmen, and whoever was to come in had a big billing to live up to.
Following the exit of several star names over the summer, much has been made of Atlético in particular in front of goal this season, with many quick to judge our new signings and point the finger at the team’s apparent inability to score and make chances from open play. Diego Costa, David Villa and Adrián
The transfer window is often a period of unease for Atlético fans. Much has been made of our activity over the summer, in particular concerning players exiting the club, as we pay the inevitable price for our own success last year. We evaluate the possibilities for Atleti in 2014/15, and also take a look at how we are shaping up compared to our domestic and European rivals.
Fernando Torres, Sergio Agüero, Diego Forlán, Radamel Falcao and Diego Costa. They have all held the expectation of rojiblanco fans in recent years, and since the latter’s departure last week to Chelsea, the question on everyone’s lips is – who will lead the line at the Vicente Calderón next season?
It now looks set to be Mandžukić, but is he right fit, or is there a better option available?