At 33 years and 215 days, Axel Witsel became this Monday evening the third oldest debutant of Atlético Madrid in the 21st century. His performance against Getafe, however, was nothing like that of a player discovering a new club and a new championship.
Positioned for the very first time in his career in an official match in the center of a five-man defense, the Red Devil was completely at ease. His relationship with Reinildo – on his left – and Savic – on his right – already seemed very mature, despite the lack of preparation for this position (two weeks) and automatisms.
Already decisive
In 90 minutes, Witsel gave the Colchoneros the benefit of his protection of the ball, his calm, his always very good placement, his defensive coverage and then his passing quality. In addition to having succeeded in 93% of his passes (55/59), the Belgian participated well in the construction.
It is also him who is at the origin of the 0-3, after having found João Felix in the central circle. The Portuguese then ideally launched Antoine Griezmann, after having already offered two assists to Alvaro Morata earlier in the game.
The entrance exam is therefore successful for Witsel, who should be reappointed to this position on Sunday against Villarreal. Note that Yannick Carrasco played the last half hour.