Conor Gallagher was named Atletico Madrid’s September Player of the Month.
Atletico Madrid unveiled its player of the month for September on its official website on Wednesday (Korea time). The hero was Gallagher, who joined the team this season.
Gallagher is a Chelsea youth player. He has been wearing the Chelsea jersey since he was eight years old. Except when he played on loan at Charlton Athletic, Swansea City, and Crystal Palace, he was a member of Chelsea FC.
Gallagher played for Chelsea in earnest from the 2022-23 season. However, his performance was disappointing compared to his chances. He only scored three goals and one assist in 45 games. His performance was not very good either. Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United were interested in the transfer market last summer, but the player wanted to stay.
Ahead of last season, prevailing view was that Gallagher’s playing time would decrease. However, there was a gap as Chelsea’s midfield resources were sidelined due to injury. Gallagher did not miss this opportunity. He finished the season with a consistent performance of 48 games, seven goals and nine assists.
In the middle of the season, it seemed that Gallagher and Chelsea would sign a new contract. “I am confident about the contract. Everyone knows that Chelsea is my team. I love to play for Chelsea. People say that if the best players come, there will be fewer chances to play, but I will prove myself,” he said.
However, things changed dramatically after the season. Gallagher wanted a high weekly wage and a long-term contract, but Chelsea refused to accept it. Gallagher judged that his treatment was not appropriate. Chelsea, which needed to clean up its squad, informed Gallagher that it would not be able to train with the first team.
Then he appeared in Atletico Madrid. He offered a five-year contract to Gallagher and successfully signed the team. “I am very happy to be a part of this great club. I look forward to achieving my goal. (The fans of Atletico Madrid) were amazing. They made me feel as comfortable as home. I’m excited to play in this stadium and be able to put everything into it,” he said.
Gallagher said Diego Simeone’s presence greatly influenced his decision. “Simeone played a big role in my decision to come to this club. He is one of the best coaches in the world.” 안전놀이터
“I’m really looking forward to playing with Simeone. I fit well with Simeone’s way of playing. He also highly values me for doing my best. The first few days are tough, but I’ll get used to it soon.”
Gallagher has been in good form since joining Atletico Madrid. In particular, he scored two goals in five games last September. He was recognized for his performance as Atletico Madrid’s player of the month in September.