Marc Pubill still counts as a vital piece for Atlético de Madrid, yet his current season hasn’t matched last year’s heights. The Catalan’s start was shaky, but he shone for Spain in the Nations League fixtures. Can he rediscover his spark?
Tuesday’s clash at Stuttgart’s MHPArena left a stain, as the German side grabbed a 1‑0 win. Even before that, doubts lingered over his defensive solidity and ball distribution.
In one of those moments he recovered the ball inside the box, tried to drive forward under pressure, and lost possession. Leweling then curled a left‑foot shot past Oblak, the ball glancing off Hjulmand to catch the Slovak keeper off guard.
Now he must claw back his place in the red‑and‑white lineup. He hasn’t performed poorly, but he used to be a standout. The sidelining of Cuti Romero with a muscle strain opens a fresh chance for growth.
If Diego Simeone trusts him from the kickoff, the door opens. After Stuttgart and a win at the RCDE Stadium, the Catalan had only been a substitute in the previous two games versus Manchester United and Alavés. In my view, Simeone should give Pubill the vote of confidence.
Pubill knows he must raise his game. He didn’t enjoy a normal preseason – joining two weeks before LaLiga began after an early return to training – and the arrival of Cuti, who fits like a glove and often pulls him wider, hasn’t helped.
The club’s faith in the youngster stays unshaken, and the fans share that belief. They’re convinced he’ll once again bring joy to the Metropolitano, just as he did last season and will continue to do.
European giants have already knocked, yet Pubill loves the colchonero shirt and expects a contract upgrade reflecting last season’s level. Will he cement a permanent starting role and help Atlético chase more trophies?