OFFICIAL: Reinildo is now a new Atletico Madrid player

Cholo Simeone already has another soldier in his charge. Reinildo Mandava became Atletico Madrid's new player on Monday, as confirmed by the red and white club on their official channels.

The 28-year-old Mozambican left-back arrives at the Wanda Metropolitano from French Ligue 1 champions Lille.

In principle, Atleti's intention was to bring Reinildo in next summer. They had everything agreed to take the player for free, as his contract expires in June, but they have preferred to bring forward the operation even if it means some expense.

 

January 31, 2022

The Madrid side have had to deal with Lille who, until the last minute, did not give their arm to negotiate. The will of the left-back, who arrives to compete with Renan Lodi and the winger Carrasco, has been fundamental.

Reinildo was a late bloomer in football. He came through the youth ranks of Benfica's second team at the age of 23 and it wasn't until he was 25 that he made the leap to Lille. Before that, he played for Fafe, Covilha and Os Belenenses.

With the French side, he has made 87 appearances since 2019. His last two seasons have been his breakthrough, with 35 and 27 appearances, respectively, between last season and this season. Despite being an attacking presence in the opposition half, he has no assists for Lille and only one goal, which came on 19th January against Lorient.

 

January 31, 2022