Diego Simeone has said new signings Julián Álvarez and Conor Gallagher need time to adapt to Atlético Madrid after both featured in the club's 3-0 LaLiga win over Girona on Sunday.
Alvarez, who joined from Manchester City this summer, made his starting debut for Atletico in the game at the Metropolitano, playing 81 minutes at centre-forward, while midfielder Gallagher, who finally joined from Chelsea last week, made his debut as a substitute in the 58th minute.
Atletico have invested heavily in the transfer market, with summer arrivals Robin Le Normand and Alexander Sørloth also involved on Sunday, as they look to compete with Real Madrid and Barcelona for the LaLiga title.
“[Gallagher] “He came out with a lot of energy,” said Simeone in the post-match press conference, when asked about the English midfielder's debut. “That's what we're going to get out of him. He needs a little time to get used to the opponents and his teammates. With his enthusiasm and passion we have to help him so that this adrenaline is positive for the team.”
Alvarez, who scored 11 Premier League goals for City last season, is Atletico's biggest signing of the summer. Simeone said the club are “convinced” the Argentina international will give his best, whether as a centre-forward or in any other role.
“We know what Julián has, what he can bring to us,” said Simeone. “We will try to take advantage of his qualities, whether as a centre forward, as a second striker or as a winger. We are convinced that we have an incredible player for the present and the future.”
“In the river [Plate] He was number nine, with Argentina he was number nine in the World Cup. At City [Erling] Haaland is there, they shared [the position] “Or he played on the wing. He can play in different positions… We have him and Sørloth. I'll have to find out.”
Atlético will host Espanyol at the Metropolitano in their next LaLiga match on Wednesday.
