Ángel Correa: The Impact Sub
Ángel Correa did it again. He entered the field, played his best in the final minutes, and scored a goal that earned points for Atlético de Madrid – three points, to be exact. This year, the story repeated itself against Athletic in San Mamés (0-1), with a winning goal in the 92nd minute after only four minutes on the field, and in the derby against Real Madrid to salvage a point (1-1). After the match in Paris, Simeone praised him once more: he lauded his “angelic” qualities, emphasized how “crucial” he was for the team, and dubbed him the 12th player.
Is Correa Deserving of a Starting Role?
Correa, however, does not want to settle for being just that impact sub, despite kissing the badge and everyone knowing that he will likely make an impact if given the chance: he will be called to warm up, summoned to enter the game, and improve the team, no matter how much time is left. He wants the full 90 minutes. He desires the spotlight of a starting position. But does he deserve it? Is he a player capable of starting? Just as we have positional specialists, can we have specialists for specific moments? Is there really that big of a difference between starting a match or playing only a few minutes?
This debate is both beautiful and complex. It is closely tied to a team’s ability to feel like a cohesive unit and their view of a match as a whole. In matches, there is an initial plan and then countless overlapping plans based on different moments in the game. Action, reaction. Trial, error. Mark, be marked, need to do or redo. No match remains the same from start to finish, and the rule of five substitutions provides a fantastic opportunity to involve up to 16 players in each match. They all need to feel like they are part of the team, whether they play 90, 60, 45, 20, or 3 minutes. How you approach the piece of the puzzle given to you is crucial. Correa seems to be a prime example of understanding his role within the team.
The Significance of Final Minutes
The final minutes can be seen as mere scraps that one plays out of anger, frustration, or indifference, or they can be the most crucial moments. Those for which you give your all. Objectively, the second half often dictates the result more than the first, even if some scores may suggest that the match is already decided after halftime. Coming on to finish a game is like being handed the key to close it out. If your team was struggling, you can correct it and change the momentum. If your teammates have been running for 50, 76, or 89 minutes more than you, you can come on and protect them with fresh legs and a savior’s spirit. It’s about understanding that your role is not primary or secondary; it is a role within a larger work, which is the team. The 12 is both the 1 and the 2.
It is not easy for players to grasp this concept, as they all tend to believe they are capable of being the chosen one, against any opponent, at any moment. They fail to see that matches are contextual and that conditions do not always align for their strengths to shine brighter than those of a teammate. This is normal. They do not have that broader perspective; it belongs to the coach.
When this understanding does occur, magic happens, and the team soars, especially in winning – and high-scoring – streaks, where introducing changes is more feasible. Just ask Flick. He is so aware of the need to maintain a friendly yet competitive balance within his squad that, after the fifth substitution in Belgrade, he approached each of the substitutes who were not going to get playing time. It was not a token gesture; it was about including them: “You didn’t play, but this victory is also yours.”
Conclusion
Ángel Correa embodies the impact sub role, showcasing the importance of understanding one’s place within a team dynamic and being ready to contribute, whether for 90 minutes or a few crucial moments. The debate around the significance of starting roles versus substitute appearances adds depth to the strategic decisions made by coaches and highlights the value of every player within a squad.
FAQs
1. Why is Ángel Correa considered an impact sub?
Correa has consistently entered matches late and made crucial contributions, scoring vital goals and turning games in favor of Atlético de Madrid. His ability to make an impact in limited playing time has earned him the reputation of an impact substitute.
2. How important are final minutes in football matches?
The final minutes of a match can often be the most decisive, as teams look to either hold onto a lead or make a comeback. Players who come on as substitutes in these moments can have a significant impact on the outcome of the game, showcasing the importance of squad depth and tactical flexibility.