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#4 Atletico's defence looks stronger than ever
Los Rojiblancos have been one of the most defensively solid sides in Europe ever since Simeone took over in 2010. The central defence will continue to be marshalled by new captain Diego Godin and he is expected to be partnered by either Jose Gimenez, who has continued his upward ascent, and the equally impressive Stefan Savic.
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Lucas Hernandez has been fully converted into being a full-time full-back and following his superlative performances last season and his displays for France at the World Cup. He will provide stiff competition for Filipe Luis who has been the team’s first choice left-back for the better part of five years.
The surprising loaning of Croatian international Sime Vrslajko to Inter Milan means that stalwart Juanfran Torres should once again be the right-back of choice for Simeone.
New signing Santiago Arias (a £9m signing from PSV Eindhoven) is a right-back in the best traditions of the modern full-back and will be the backup option.
