It was one of the nice moves of the last winter transfer window. Atlético paid a little more than 20 million euros to acquire Arthur Vermeeren, the Belgian nugget then only 18 years old. A fairly early age, but the midfielder had shown very good things with Royal Antwerp. Particularly on the European scene. An investment which could therefore potentially be quickly profitable, and which had created a certain enthusiasm in Madrid, since the Colchoneros had beaten several other big European clubs in this matter.
However, a few months after his arrival, the results are very meager. Of course, no one imagined him becoming an indisputable starter from the start. Diego Simeone always puts his recruits through a period of adaptation, even more so when it comes to arrivals during the season. But we could at least expect to see him grab minutes here and there, in less important matches, while the Colchoneros faced a very intense schedule.
Put in the closet
The Belgian international (4 selections) is however plastered. He has not played since March 9, and this entry during the match against Cadiz. In total, he only played 83 minutes in his new colors, spread over 3 appearances. Starving numbers. It must still be emphasized that he has some great clients as competitors in Madrid, like Koke or Rodrigo de Paul, and that the environment is a sector that is working rather well this season at Atlético, unlike the defense.
A situation which still questions fans and supporters. This weekend, Diego Simeone was questioned again about his case. “He must continue to work. He is trying to evolve, to learn the language, and he is getting better. This allows him to be more integrated into the group. He shows his best face in training. Griezmann also had a period like that, we have confidence in his progress and we will give him the opportunity to show himself”, explained the Argentinian. Until then, the Belgian will have to be patient…
