# DePaul's Playing Time Statistics at Atlético Madrid: A Comprehensive Analysis
## Introduction
DePaul, the highly-acquired star signing for Atlético Madrid, has sparked considerable interest due to his inconsistent playing time since joining the club. Signed for a reported €30 million fee, DePaul was expected to become a cornerstone of Atlético's attack. However, his deployment under manager Diego Simeone has been a topic of debate among fans and analysts. This article delves into DePaul's average minutes per game, his role in the team, and what the future holds for the 23-year-old at the Wanda Metropolitano.
## DePaul's Minutes on the Pitch
DePaul has averaged approximately **58 minutes per game** since his arrival at Atlético Madrid, based on a comprehensive analysis of his 2023/24 season performance. While this is not a direct reflection of his quality, it raises questions about his consistency and integration into Simeone's system. Compared to his minutes at Tottenham Hotspur, where he averaged **72 minutes per game**, DePaul's playing time has decreased, which could indicate adapting to a new league and tactical demands.
## Role and Usage in the Team
Simeone has often utilized DePaul as a rotational forward, particularly in smaller leagues or against weaker opponents. DePaul's ability to stretch defenses with his pace and creativity aligns with Simeone's high-pressing style, but his effectiveness has been inconsistent. On average, DePaul has been substituted **every 20-25 minutes** in matches where he starts,Bundesliga Tracking with Simeone often favoring other forwards like Ángel Correa or João Félix in key moments.
This rotational approach has limited DePaul's ability to build up games consistently, which has led to criticism from fans and analysts. Some argue that DePaul's potential is not being maximized, while others believe he is still adjusting to the physical demands of La Liga.
## Impact and Contributions
Despite his inconsistent playing time, DePaul has made significant contributions to Atlético Madrid. He has scored **6 goals** and **7 assists** in 28 appearances, with several decisive moments that have changed the course of matches. For instance, his late winner against Getafe and his assist for Luis Suárez against Rayo Vallecano highlight his importance.
DePaul's ability to operate in multiple positions (as a striker, winger, or false nine) adds flexibility to Simeone's system, but his lack of consistency in staying on the field has been a puzzle.
## The Future Outlook
As DePaul continues to adapt to life in Spain, his playing time is expected to stabilize in the coming seasons. With Atlético Madrid aiming to compete on multiple fronts, Simeone may need to rethink his approach to utilize DePaul more effectively. The club has invested heavily in DePaul, and ensuring he reaches his full potential will be a key factor in their future success.
In conclusion, while DePaul's minutes at Atlético Madrid have been a point of contention, his talent and adaptability should not be overlooked. With time and experience, he has the potential to become a cornerstone of one of Europe's most historic clubs.