beIN SPORTS By David Cartlidge (@davidjaca)

Introduction

Another emotionally charged campaign saw Atletico Madrid end up heartbroken and empty handed. La Liga seemed to be falling into their hands at one point only to then slip away, while the cruelty of the Champions League was once again felt. Still, despite ending up without physical reward for their efforts, Atleti came away again with plaudits. They pushed hard, harder than ever, only to eventually fall short.

Now they get back on the saddle, only this time Diego Simeone feels like he has the squad to go all the way. And to make sure there are smiles instead of tears. The squad looks leaner, meaner and packed with more quality. It’s young, but smattered with experience, and most importantly all their star components have committed to the club. Antoine Griezmann is now a household name, but remains happy in Atleti’s house most of all.

What has changed from last season

Quality has been added, and cover. Plucking away Kevin Gameiro from Sevilla, all the while holding off Barcelona to his signature, was a major victory for Simeone after his priority targets of Diego Costa and Edison Cavani proved out of reach.

Nico Gaitán comes in to add creative depth, while Sime Vrsaljko is an astute signing to cover both full-back areas. Three major signings, but three essential signings. Simeone feels Atleti can pack even more punch now, and instead of shutting up shop now has the belief to go at the big teams. We may therefore see a different mentality, a more confident Atleti, and one that while still feeling like the underdog knows it can bite with the big boys.

Objectives

Simeone, privately, has an obsession for the Champions League, and Atleti remain a team setup by their coach to navigate two legged games. They’re an outstanding European team in this regard and will be the most feared opponent on the continent. But, there is that depth to the squad now and there is a feeling they can battle on all fronts.

LaLiga therefore will be very much in their sights and the mentality will be to match Real Madrid and Barcelona’s aspirations despite being dwarfed by their budgets. Simeone will be working his players harder than ever, despite knowing the tools he has at his disposal are better than ever before.

Prediction

Despite the new names expect Griezmann to lead any Atleti charge. Now established as a world-class star he will be tasked with guiding this team through difficult moments while also showcasing his natural ability. Atleti will be fighting on all fronts and will be up for any scrap in any competition. Champions League is the priority for Simeone, the now iconic figure at the Calderon. Atleti surely cannot take any more heartbreak in the competition, can they?