Once a completely discarded player on the verge of an early exit from current loan club Atlético Mineiro, Nathan has managed to change his fortunes and flip the script — hopefully for good this time around. According to UOL Esporte, his recent success could see him stay beyond the initial terms set in his loan from Chelsea.
Atlético-MG reconsidera situação e avalia permanência de Nathan https://t.co/B0ktkrUAIc
— Sou Atlético MG (@SouAtleticoMG) May 7, 2019
Nathan, 23, arrived at Atlético last July on an 11-month contract, which expires next month. Shortly after, he was frozen out by former coach Levir Culpi who barely gave him any minutes or chances to play for the team. The situation was so dire that Nathan was set to leave in the winter, after the conclusion of the Brazilian Serie A .
But that was reversed during pre-season. Nathan was given a fresh chance and under a new boss, Rodrigo Santana, he is flourishing.
While he is still just a backup to Atlético’s biggest star, Juan Cazares, the main man's recent injury is giving Nathan extra opportunities. It's going so well, that the team is considering an offer to make him a permanent signing. His Chelsea contract only expires in 2020, but we presumably won't stand in his way if he wants to move on.
For now, it is up to Nathan to keep up the good work at Atlético.