We knew that it’s about to happen for days, and now it’s official. Memphis Depay is a new Atletico Madrid player. The Dutch forward will leave the capital of Catalunya, and try to help Simeone and his team fix what looks like a terrible season so far. The final numbers are 3+1 Millions and a non-mandatory buy option for Yannick Carrasco for 15-20 Millions next summer.
As Barça fans, we shouldn’t be happy when our player leaves to a direct rival. Moreover, the sum that Atleico will pay is very low. And especially after the strategy that Atletico had with Griezmann few months ago. But unlike former operations like Luis Suarez or David Villa, this one is different. With 6 months left in his contract, Memphis and Atletico had the leverage in this operation. The fact that the club got anything for him is a good thing. The Dutch arrived for free and was ready to leave for free as well next summer. This way the club can save few Millions in FFP, and that would help the club register Araujo, Gavi, Balde and Inaki Pena.
As for Memphis Depay, we have to remember that during the awful start of last season, he was the light in a very dark time. He made an effort and arrived to the club in a middle of a crisis, and became the club’s top scorer.
Things went downhill
It’s fair to say that he was Koeman’s player. Therefore, something wasn’t right with him ever since Xavi took over. This season Memphis Depay became a ghost of himself, and hopefully he’ll be able to regain his form in Atletico Madrid. Just not against Barça.
Memphis leaves Barcelona after scoring 14 goals and 2 assists to his name. He didn’t become a club’s legend, but he was a useful player and one who has a sense for goal.
Will this be another Villa or Suarez case in which we regret to see the player that leaves us lead Atletico to a league title? I doubt it. I’m not sure he’s the type of player to lead Atletico. The best thing for him would be to ‘click’ with Griezmann and secure a starting spot for Simeone.
