Atlético has opened up a possibility in the market that, although it is still very far away, makes that within the club they already fantasize about it becoming a reality. And if Griezmann (30 years old) wears rojiblanco again? Starting with Simeone, who knows French perfectly and, if i came back i would do it with chevrons. But Atlético has just won the League and it is not easy to get to the eleven from the outside.
As soon as the Griezmann-Saúl barter plan came to light, at Atlético eyes turned directly to João Félix. The Portuguese arrived precisely to fill the gap left by the French. Not only his position on the field and even his number, but his team crack status, of leader of the attack. But they have been two years of much irregularity. João has shown quality and personality, but intermittently. At Atlético they trust him and that this season, the third season, is really the one of his confirmation. That is why no way out was considered at any time.
So that, the Portuguese seems the first affected if Griezmann arrives. Also Correa, who took over the position of companion of Luis Suárez in the final stretch and ended up being decisive for the League. Even if the Argentine has the plus that he can play on the right wing from 4-4-2. It is, in fact, where I usually played until Grizi left in 2019. In that position Simeone also came to see João Félix, then escorting Morata and Diego Costa from the right, but it did not materialize
Another option for the Cholo would be to use Griezmann as in France. That is, by behind two forwards, more like a midfielder who participates in the game and comes from behind. In your selection are Benzema and Mbappé; in Atleti it could be Suárez and João or Correa. In this case there would be more than enough means, or even Carrasco if he gives up the lanes in a 4-3-1-2.
At other times, more specific, Griezmann could be the center forward of the team. But it is not the position that the French like best or where he performs best. And Atleti already has Suárez, but it would be an option for the Uruguayan's absences. Even so, the club prefers a nine specialist that Correa or Griezmann have to exercise that function.
Be that as it may, Fitting Griezmann and João Félix with Suárez in the same eleven is possible, but that will affect what is left behind. If the rear is four, there will only be room for three out of Koke, De Paul, Llorente, Carrasco, Lemar … With three defenders, if the left lane is for Carrasco and the right for Trippier, only two midfielders enter.