Spanish Media: De Paul’s Participation in Rayo Match Uncertain; Simeone Hopes for Reserve Team Star

Several Spanish media outlets have confirmed that due to De Paul’s discomfort, his participation is uncertain, and Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone may promote reserve team star Javi Serrano for the match against Rayo Vallecano.

During Saturday’s training, De Paul experienced some physical issues and could only train separately, unable to participate in group training, which casts doubt on his ability to play. Therefore, Simeone might opt to field the young star Javi Serrano, and there’s even a possibility of the youngster starting.

Serrano is 21 years old, standing at 1.78 meters tall, and was selected for Spain’s U19 national team in 2021. He is currently part of the Atletico B team under Fernando Torres’ management. However, yesterday, this 21-year-old rising star was excluded from the matchday squad for the Atletico B team game, with no specific reason given. Spanish media believe that this signal indicates that the young player might reinforce Simeone’s first team for this match.

Last season, Serrano was loaned out to Austria’s FK Austria Wien, where he participated in several Austrian Bundesliga matches, Champions League qualifiers, and Europa League games, gaining valuable experience. His contract with Atletico Madrid expires in 2026, and the club is currently in talks with him about an extension.

The competition for midfield positions at Atletico Madrid this season is fierce. De Paul is naturally a starter, Koke is the captain, and Marcos Llorente plays a crucial role. Additionally, Callum Hudson-Odoi is one of Atletico’s most important signings for the midfield. Given these circumstances, if the 21-year-old Serrano gets playing time, it will be a long-awaited precious opportunity for him.

Spanish media point out that Javi Serrano will remain with the Atletico B team until at least January. However, the player personally wishes to play for a team in a higher-level league. If the renewal is completed and Atletico’s first team has sufficient personnel, Serrano will be allowed to leave again on loan to gain top-flight experience. From this perspective, if Serrano can play, he will work very hard to showcase himself. Even if this is not enough to help him establish himself in Atletico’s first team, it could at least help him find a better place during the winter transfer window.