Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United target Yannick Carrasco has indicated he had no plans to leave Atletico Madrid for the Premier League in the January transfer window, speaking to RTBF.
Is there a more underrated footballer in Europe than Yannick Ferreira Carrasco?
Last season, as Diego Simeone’s side won their first La Liga title since the days of Diego Costa, David Villa and Thibaut Courtois, the twinkle-toed Belgian was arguably their most consistent performer.
Yes, Luis Suarez hogged the headlines. Yes, Angel Correa was the final day hero. But Carrasco was the driving force. A constant thorn in La Liga defences with his devastating combination of power and skill.
His 40-yard winner against Barcelona in November 2020 felt like a real turning point. A result which established Atletico’s status as genuine title challengers, while giving Simeone’s side the confidence to push on at the top.
And, yes, Atleti have fallen some way short of last season’s standards – they are currently fourth and 15 points adrift of Madrid neighbours Real – but Carrasco continues to perform.
Why did Carrasco stay at Atletico Madrid?
Los Colchoneros were never going to sell. Especially not in January.
And, even if Tottenham or Newcastle had triggered the £50 million release clause in his contract, Carrasco would have been in no rush to pack his bags and board a flight out of the Spanish capital (FootMercato).
“Today I feel very, very good. I’m home. I am a major player (in Simeone’s plans),” explains the former Monaco man, who is now in his second spell at Atletico.
“Some clubs knocked on my door this winter but I’m fine at Atletico. I wanted to continue my adventure here.”
Where will Atletico finish?
“I think, this year, I’m doing pretty well so far,” Carrasco adds.
“Even tactically, I think I’ve matured quite a bit. When you’re young, you think a little more about yourself, about your individual performance, about doing tricks. But, with maturity, you think more about what collective.
“I think the public loves me a lot because I return the favour. I have already reached 200 games. It is not something easy in a club and less so in a top European club. I hope to be able to add a few more games to my record with Atletico.”
Versatile, creative, hard-working, blessed with an eye for goal and capable of playing up front of at wing-back, you can certainly see why Antonio Conte wanted Carrasco at Tottenham.
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