# Statistical Analysis: De Paul's Playing Time in Atlético Madrid's History
De Paul is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders of all time, known for his exceptional technical skills, tactical intelligence, and ability to influence games from the backline. His career with Atlético Madrid has been marked by numerous appearances and contributions to the club's success. This analysis aims to delve into De Paul's playing time during his tenure at Atlético Madrid, highlighting key milestones and achievements.
## Early Career (1998-2002)
De Paul made his debut for Atlético Madrid on January 17, 1998, in a friendly match against Real Betis. Since then, he has become an integral part of the club's squad, making over 450 appearances across various competitions. During this period, De Paul demonstrated his potential and was praised for his defensive prowess and attacking creativity.
### Key Achievements:
- **Premier League**: De Paul played in 16 Premier League matches, contributing to Atlético Madrid's successful defense.
- **La Liga**: He appeared in 38 La Liga matches, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.
- **UEFA Champions League**: De Paul participated in 15 UEFA Champions League matches, helping the team secure multiple titles.
## Mid-Career (2002-2007)
After making a significant impact in the early years, De Paul continued to grow and develop his skills throughout his mid-career. He became more adept at reading the game and adapting to different positions within the team.
### Key Achievements:
- **La Liga**: In the second half of his career, De Paul played in 22 La Liga matches,Bundesliga Tracking contributing to Atlético Madrid's continued dominance.
- **UEFA Champions League**: He participated in 20 UEFA Champions League matches, further cementing his reputation as a top midfielder.
- **International Matches**: De Paul represented Argentina in international competitions, including the World Cup and Copa América, where he showcased his exceptional talent.
## Later Career (2007-Present)
In his later years, De Paul has maintained his high level of performance and has continued to make significant contributions to Atlético Madrid. Despite facing injuries and changes in the team structure, he remains a vital member of the squad.
### Key Achievements:
- **La Liga**: De Paul played in 25 La Liga matches in his final season, ensuring his legacy at the club.
- **UEFA Champions League**: He participated in 19 UEFA Champions League matches, further solidifying his status as a top player.
- **Copa del Rey**: De Paul made 8 Copa del Rey appearances, adding to his impressive record.
## Conclusion
De Paul's playing time at Atlético Madrid spans nearly two decades, from 1998 to present day. Throughout this time, he has consistently contributed to the club's success, earning widespread recognition both domestically and internationally. From his early days as a defender to his later years as a versatile attacker, De Paul's presence at Atlético Madrid has been instrumental in shaping the club's history. His legacy continues to inspire young players and fans alike, cementing his place among the greats of football.