Gameiro discusses adapting to life at Atletico and Griezmann as the leader of the team

Kevin Gameiro’s move from Sevilla in the summer was heavily scrutinised given his age, Atletico’s pursuit of other striking options and, possibly most importantly, his style of play.

The speedy striker was coming into a side that already possessed plenty of pace on the wings and needed a target man as their number nine who could mix it up without the ball while also utilising speed as a weapon when necessary. (Yes, I am talking about Diego Costa)

With five goals in 11 La Liga games, which is just one less than his talismanic compatriot, Antoine Griezmann, he says he is adapting to life at Atletico and their style of play:

“Atletico’s style is ideal for my way of playing,” said the striker, according to AS English.

“I found it difficult in preseason, especially the physical side. But now I’m now more attuned to the counterattack as well as to defending. I’m getting used to it.”

Diego Simeone recently said he was not concerned with Antoine Griezmann’s poor record in from of goals, and Gameiro labours that point in stating that the Frenchman is the leader of the team:

“We enjoy playing together. He’s the leader, but one of those leaders who helps the team. It’s a pleasure to play with him, because he rolls up his sleeves and sets an example. He’s the favourite of the Atleti fans.”

Gameiro is 29 and might have a couple more years at the top and if he continues progressing like he has in the opening months of his time at Atletico, he could become a fan favourite at the Calderon and have some trophies to show for his time in the capital of Spain too.