‘Pitbull’ Gallagher leading new-look Atletico into Madrid derby

During nearly 12 years in charge of Atletico Madrid, Diego Simeone has led the club to unprecedented success, including two La Liga titles and Champions League qualification every single year.

But last season’s disappointing fourth-placed finish, 19 points behind champions Real Madrid, was accompanied by the first major murmurings of discontent against the charismatic Argentine coach, who reacted by overseeing a major squad rebuild during the summer.

With a quartet of expensive summer signings totalling nearly 200 million euros at his disposal, Simeone is attempting to rediscover defensive solidity while also instilling a more fluid attacking style.

After undistinguished performances in the opening weeks of the campaign, that project has not convinced.

And on Sunday comes the biggest test yet for Simeone’s new-look team – a home meeting with bitter local rivals Real (20:00 BST).

If Atletico can become the first team in more than a year to beat Carlo Ancelotti’s men (since the Rojiblancos themselves achieved that feat last September), it could kickstart a new era.

And an England player will take a leading role.

Gallagher quickly earning admirers
One big-money summer signing who has been an unqualified success so far is midfielder Conor Gallagher.

The former Chelsea captain was initially eased into action by Simeone, but soon started to earn rave reviews.

Gallagher first really shone during a 3-0 victory over Valencia two weeks ago, capping a fine all-round display with a well-taken opening goal.

That performance prompted pundit Julio Maldonado to enthuse: “I was already convinced he’s a great signing, and today he demonstrated why.

“If Simeone could design a footballer for the centre of the field, he would design a player like Gallagher. He recovers possession, works hard, he’s physically tremendous and has a lot of intuition to support the attack.”

He followed up with another excellent goal, securing a 1-1 draw at Rayo Vallecano, and his new manager is clearly a big fan.

“I like him a lot,” said Simeone. “Gallagher has something that you can’t buy: enthusiasm, passion, rhythm… wherever you put him, he has a work-rate, talent and aggression that will do us a lot of good.”

Gallagher’s 42 million euros price tag comes with lofty expectations, but so far he is matching them and more – even earning a new nickname for his committed style: ‘Pitbull’.

On Sunday, he will relish the chance to snap at the heels of international team-mate Jude Bellingham.