Atletico Madrid recently completed the signing of Daniel Wass from their rivals Valencia. The Danish international can solve their right back problem.
Diego Simeone’s side lost Kieran Trippier to Newcastle United so they needed someone who could fill the void left by the English right back.
Valencia were reluctant to let go of Wass to a rival but, Atletico came up with a better offer to seal the signing. The deal was made between the two sides for around €3 million this week for the 18 month contract.
Atletico Madrid have done a good business in signing one of the experienced players in La Liga with a restrained budget because of the pandemic.
The Dane has joined Atletico Madrid till 2023 and there is an option that can extend his contract till 2024 at Wanda Metropolitano.
The club published a statement saying, “His ability to play in defense and midfield and to make a difference on both ends of the pitch makes him a valuable addition to Simeone’s side.”
“After 136 games, 14 goals, and 20 assists (at Celta Vigo), the Dane was signed by Valencia in 2018. His versatility has also allowed him to shine at Mestalla, where he has produced 15 goals and 20 assists in 152 matches.”
📽 | INTERVIEW
💬 The first words of Daniel Wass as a Red & White player:
🎙 ❝To play here is a dream for me❞.
🔴⚪ #WelcomeWass pic.twitter.com/PuZ48BKAKS
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) January 28, 2022
Daniel Wass positional flexibility
Atletico Madrid needed a quick solution to their right back problem after Trippier’s departure. At 32 years of age, the Dane is a short term answer to that problem.
Vrsaljko is mostly struggling with injuries which leaves the gap in Atletico’s back four. The Croatian international’s contract will expire at end of this season so Atletico Madrid needed someone who can replace him.
Moreover, his positional flexibility will help Atletico Madrid as the games come thick and fast. The Danish international can operate at right back, left back, right wing-back and in central midfield.
However, this season, Wass has only played at right-back for Valencia in one match under Jose Bordalas. But for his national team, he is a regular right back and was good in the Euros 2020.
For Valencia, he has played as a right full back for 55 matches in the last three years. But his ability to play in the midfield is something Simeone will like as he is used to playing versatile players like Saul Niguez.
What will Wass bring to Atletico Madrid?
Wass has lots of experience in playing in La Liga. So, he will not need much time in settling into the team.
The 32 year old has made 224 La Liga appearances. Also, he has played 32 Europa League and 11 Champions League matches.
Marcos Llorente covers for Vrsalijko at the right back position when he is injured. But that restricts the Spaniard’s attacking output as he can be more useful in the midfield. So, Wass’ presence can unleash Llorente’s potential as he can move in a more attacking role.
Also, his defensive awareness is not up to the mark so, an experienced player like Wass will help them.
If Wass plays in midfield, he will provide something different as he can carry the ball forward with ease.
