Ex-Barcelona striker Memphis Depay and Mario Hermoso have officially left Atletico Madrid as free agents.
The news of their departure was confirmed by the club in the wee hours of Sunday, June 30, leaving fans shocked and some disappointed.
Memphis Depay exited Atletico Madrid as a free agent
The veteran forward and musician Depay had indicated his desire to depart Civitas Metropolitano earlier this month after a short 18-month stint in the Spanish capital.
The Dutch player netted 13 goals in 49 games for Atletico Madrid, including a crucial goal in the Champions League last-16 match against Inter Milan.
Depay, who joined Diego Simeone’s team just last year, is now considering several proposals from other clubs as he looks to continue his career elsewhere.
Mario Hermoso and Gabriel Paulista exit Atletico Madrid
Leaving Atletico Madrid along with Depay are versatile defenders Hermoso and Gabriel Paulista.
Mario Hermoso agreed to a five-year contract with Atlético Madrid for €25 million in 2019 and was highly instrumental when Atletico won its 11th La Liga in 2020.
Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano revealed that Hermoso is also exploring his options after departing the club while Gabriel Paulista has already signed for Besiktas.
The Italian transfer journalist wrote on his X account: “Official, confirmed. Memphis Depay and Mario Hermoso both leave Atlético Madrid as free agents.
The 33-year-old Brazilian defender Gabriel Paulista will be joining the Turkish club, leaving a void in Atletico Madrid’s backline.
Romano added: “Depay and Hermoso are considering proposals while Gabriel Paulista already signed for Besiktas.”
It remains to be seen where Depay and Hermoso will end up, but one thing is for certain – Atletico Madrid will have some big shoes to fill in the upcoming transfer window.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting news of potential replacements for these two key players.
The trio’s time at Diego Simeone’s team
Memphis Depay, Mario Hermoso, and Gabriel Paulista have been making headlines in the football world recently as they each make significant moves in their careers.
Former Barcelona star Depay signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with Atletico Madrid under the leadership of Diego Simeone.
Since joining the team on 20 January 2023, he has already made a considerable impact, scoring an impressive 13 goals in 49 games.
However, Spanish center-backk Mario Hermoso, who recently bid farewell to the club after his five-year contract came to an end was also impressive during his stint at Atletico.
Hermoso had been a key player for Atletico since signing in 2019, and his departure marks the end of an era for the team.
On the flip side, Brazilian defender Gabriel Paulista, with experience at Arsenal and two FA Cup wins under his belt, made a move to Atletico at the beginning of last season.
He joined the team on a free transfer and signed a contract until the end of the season, bringing his expertise and skills to the squad.
With Depay’s goal-scoring abilities, Hermoso’s defensive prowess, and Paulista’s experience, the trio are certainly a force to be reckoned with in the football world.
What’s next for Memphis Depay and others?
These three players each brought their strengths and talents to Atletico Madrid, and, surely, their impressive performances are likely to carry over to their future clubs in the upcoming seasons.
