Atlético Madrid's Defeat Jeopardizes Simeone's Future

[OSEN=Jung Seung-woo Reporter] Despite the efforts of key players including Lee Kang-in (25, Atlético Madrid), Atlético Madrid suffered a crushing defeat. Defensive instability and a lack of concentration in the early second half were fully exposed, leading to widespread criticism of head coach Diego Simeone's (56) tactical decisions. Atlético Madrid suffered a 0-3 defeat to Atlético Bilbao in the fourth round of the 2026-2027 Spanish La Liga season held at San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, on September 5 (Korean time). The team, which had started the season with two wins and one draw, plummeted to seventh place after their first loss of the season. Lee Kang-in made his third consecutive start and showcased active movements. His right-footed shot from the right flank in the third minute of the first half struck the post, leading Atlético Madrid's attack. The first half ended 0-0 in a tight contest, but tragedy struck immediately after the second half began. Atlético Madrid conceded the opening goal to Nico Williams just one minute into the second half and collapsed rapidly, allowing a second goal to Roberto Navarro two minutes later. Their fatal lack of concentration in the early second half completely handed the momentum to the opponent. To turn the game around, Simeone made a bold move by substituting four players, including Lee Kang-in, in the 14th minute of the second half. However, as pointed out by Spain's AS, nothing changed, and everything worsened. They conceded another goal to Oihan Sancet in the closing minutes, tasting the bitter pill of a three-goal defeat. Spain's Mundo Deportivo noted that this loss was not just a single defeat but evidence of failure in transfer market planning. In particular, Grimaldo, responsible for left defense, underperformed, clearly highlighting why Simeone had focused on signing experienced resources like Nicolás Tagliafico on the final day of the transfer window. After the match, Simeone apologized, saying, 'The first half was good, but concentration lapsed for two minutes in the second half, and the coaching staff is responsible for failing to capitalize on opportunities.' The aftermath of the defeat has extended to questions about the coach's future. Local media, including Marca, reported that there is a 50-60% chance this season will be Simeone's last at Atlético Madrid. Amid uncertainty surrounding the future of the symbolic leader who has guided the team for over 14 years, Lee Kang-in, who has established himself as a key player wearing the squad number 7 under Simeone's trust, now faces the team's cohesion and performance as critical variables for the remainder of the season. /reccos23@osen.co.kr