Manchester United are out of the Champions League after being beaten by Atletico Madrid – and former Manchester City man Stefan Savic played a key role.
United went into Tuesday’s clash with real hope having claimed a 1-1 draw against Atletico in Spain last month.
In the end though, United came up short against Diego Simeone’s men with Renan Lodi heading home the winner in the first half.
United fell into the Atletico trap in the end, completely using their shape, fluency and gameplay as Simeone’s side saw the game out masterfully.
This is what Atletico love to do; take a 1-0 lead and battle through, frustrating their opponents in the process.
Simeone’s men are masters at this, defending like few other sides in Europe are able to in the pressure situations.
One of the key defenders in Simeone’s side at Old Trafford was Stefan Savic – a man who has Manchester City ties.
Savic joined Jose Maria Gimenez and Reinildo in Atletico’s back three with Lodi and Marcos Llorente operating as wing backs.
The system worked to perfection for Atletico, with Savic making a triumphant return to Manchester.
Savic recorded five clearances, two interceptions, one tackle and one aerial duel in a strong performance, keeping United at bay throughout.
The Montenegrin defender has become a trusted lieutenant of Simeone, racking up more than 200 Atletico appearances.
Few could have expected that when Savic spent just over a year at Manchester City following a £6million move from Partizan Belgrade.
Aged just 21, Savic was flogged by City after just 11 league appearances.
Savic was sent to Fiorentina as part of a deal for Matija Nastasic, becoming a solid defender in Italy before taking his game to another level under Simeone.
Savic may not have enjoyed his time with City, but City fans will be absolutely loving Savic tonight having helped dump rivals United out of Europe.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
