Hjulmand begins Atlético’s return operation amid pride and concern

Hjulmand has begun Atlético’s return operation, as the club balances pride in its internationals’ performances with concern over their workload. The return phase is due to continue until Thursday, two days before LaLiga resumes at Mendizorroza. Musso, Cuti Romero, Giuliano, Julián Álvarez, Jonathan David and Obed Vargas are due back in training after their final matches, scheduled for Wednesday night.

The international-break record has pleased the club: Atlético players scored eight goals and provided three assists. Baena supplied two of those assists, while Kang-in Lee provided one. Oblak, meanwhile, kept two clean sheets in three matches.

That success has a downside. With the league restart approaching, the workload accumulated by several players and the limited time available for recovery are causes for concern. The Dane, after playing all four matches for his national team, returns with 342 minutes of playing time. He reflects the heavy demands placed on a large part of the international contingent.

Hjulmand is also described as the international with the most kilometres in his legs, with the possible exception of Oblak, who could end up being the most-used player. He was nevertheless the first to rejoin Simeone’s group. In midfield, Barrios, Koke and Cardoso strengthened their positions during the break, leaving that area well covered as the returns are completed.