|
MADRID, Aug. 13-- After two seasons finishing second in the Liga Santander behind FC Barcelona, Atletico Madrid fans will be asking whether this season they can go one better after a summer of important changes to their squad. The end of last season saw several key players leave Atletico as defensive leader Diego Godin decided to join Inter Milan, France international Lucas Hernandez signed Bayern Munich, Rodrigo Hernandez moved to Manchester City, while Antoine Griezmann signed for FC Barcelona and Felipe Luis and Juanfran also left the club. Most sides would struggle after losing players such as Rodri, Hernandez, Godin and Griezmann, but Atletico have been almost as busy bringing players in and it looks as if they have done a good job. The big name arrival is 19-year-old Portuguese forward Joao Felix and while most will be surprised at the 120 million euro fee, the youngster's performances in pre-season imply that Atletico have signed a special talent, who could be one of the big names in the game over the coming years. Meanwhile Marcos Llorente moves across town from Real Madrid and will provide control in central midfield, as will Mexican international Hector Herrera. Spain international Mario Hermoso and experienced Brazilian, Felipe Augusto have come in to accompany Jose Gimenez and Stefan Savic in central defense, while England international Kieran Trippier looks to be a bargain right back at just 20 million euros (24 million US dollars). | 
