Atletico Madrid travelled to the Estadio do Dragao on the back of an ecstatic injury-time draw with Real Madrid in La Liga. However, Diego Simeone’s men were not ready for what was about to happen as they suffered their biggest Champions League loss since 2021 thanks to goals from Muhammed Kerem Akturkoglu, Angel Di Maria, Alexander Bah and Orkun Kokc. Spanish publication Marca‘s player ratings for Rojiblancos saw Gallagher heavily criticised after the former Chelsea midfielder conceded a penalty in the contest
-
Getty Images
WHAT WAS SAID ABOUT GALLAGHER
Marca rated Gallagher rated a measly four out of ten, writing: “Gallagher came on after the break and was involved in the penalty that led to Benfica’s second goal. He was left in the lurch by Bah for the home side’s third goal. He had no attitude and no intensity. The Englishman’s performance was inexplicable.”
-
Getty Images
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The England international made the move to Atletico Madrid from Chelsea in the summer after a lengthy transfer saga. Gallagher signed a five-year deal with the Rojiblancos and has had a decent start to his stint under Simeone. However, his performance against Benfica left a lot to be desired.
-
WHAT NEXT FOR GALLAGHER?
It is possible that the England international could start Atletico Madrid’s next clash as they will look to dust off the performance against Benfica. Simeone’s side will take on Real Sociedad on Sunday, October 6.