According to Marca, Griezmann's defensive capabilities are under scrutiny, and Atlético Madrid could deploy Hincapié as a left-back in the upcoming match against Liverpool.

Griezmann has struggled with controlling his positioning on the left flank, and this defensive vulnerability recalls long-standing issues in Atlético's left-back role. Last season, Liverpool exploited this weakness when Galán was caught out twice by Salah within two minutes.

While Athletic Bilbao's loss at San Mamés cannot be attributed solely to Griezmann's error, it is undeniable that Simeone continues to face the same left-back problems that have plagued him in recent years. What complicates matters further is that Atlético Madrid will face Liverpool at Anfield, where Galán suffered intense pressure from Salah last season and conceded two goals between the 4th and 6th minutes. Bilbao's concentration lapse occurred within those same two minutes, leaving the Spanish international in a vulnerable position. This context highlights that Liverpool is ready to target this defensive weakness.

Griezmann arrived at the Metropolitano as a World Cup champion. Though Cucurella kept him on the bench for extended periods, Atlético Madrid's primary target remained set on him. After Real Madrid intervened, Atlético Madrid pivoted toward other options. At Leverkusen, Griezmann demonstrated "striker-level" performance—scoring 30 goals and providing 45 assists across 145 matches—yet questions about his defensive capabilities have emerged in his opening matches since the transfer.

At San Mamés, Griezmann's poor performance included easily being beaten by Roberto Navarro for the 2-0 goal and failing to cover his area for the 1-0 goal, necessitating that Hincapié mark Iñaki Williams. Additionally, Griezmann carelessly allowed Miguel Sierra space during Sevilla's goal-scoring moment in the previous match. These are clear signs that Simeone must urgently address a long-standing problem.

More specifically, this issue has persisted since 2019 when Filipe and Lucas Hernández departed, and no one among their successors has truly filled that void. Lodi, Galán, and Ruggeri have all struggled with defensive vulnerabilities. While Ruggeri performed well in some matches against Yamal, Reinildo, though defensively solid like a wall, lacks offensive contribution. Even Reguilón failed to plug this gap entirely.

Simeone has resorted to temporary solutions, including shifting Saúl into the position, moving Hermoso to left-back, or deploying attacking left-backs like Carrasco. These makeshift options will be relevant considerations for the trip to Anfield.

Hincapié has become a popular choice.

Given this situation, deploying Hincapié as a left-back against Liverpool is increasingly likely. On one hand, this choice addresses the need to contain the opposing wingers, as Victor Muñoz or Barcola pose threats from that flank. On the other hand, Castro-Romero is emerging as a defensive leader, and Atlético Madrid wants to restore the defensive solidity the line enjoyed when Filipe or Lucas protected the flanks. Admittedly, this is not the most natural position for the Slovakian player. However, with limited alternatives (Atlético Madrid discussed a swap deal involving Tagliafico until the final day of the transfer market in an effort to finalize numbers), Hincapié appears to be the best available option to regain control of the situation.

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