12 days ago
Two Premier League matches at Anfield. Two draws.
For just the third time in 63 years, Liverpool have failed to win both of their opening home games of a league season - not exactly the flying start new boss Andoni Iraola would have been dreaming of.
After such an encouraging midweek performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, full of urgency, Saturday's goalless draw against Fulham was a flat follow-up, especially with the Cottagers lacking in confidence and having conceded seven goals in their first three league games.
The Reds looked physically and mentally tired and, to put it bluntly, like an entirely different team to the one that won against a Diego Simeone side that made it to the Champions League semi-finals last season.
On the first real look at how Iraola's style will cope with two games a week, this was certainly not what the Liverpool head coach, nor the Anfield crowd, would have wanted to see.
#league #games #champions #premier
For just the third time in 63 years, Liverpool have failed to win both of their opening home games of a league season - not exactly the flying start new boss Andoni Iraola would have been dreaming of.
After such an encouraging midweek performance against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, full of urgency, Saturday's goalless draw against Fulham was a flat follow-up, especially with the Cottagers lacking in confidence and having conceded seven goals in their first three league games.
The Reds looked physically and mentally tired and, to put it bluntly, like an entirely different team to the one that won against a Diego Simeone side that made it to the Champions League semi-finals last season.
On the first real look at how Iraola's style will cope with two games a week, this was certainly not what the Liverpool head coach, nor the Anfield crowd, would have wanted to see.
#league #games #champions #premier
13 days ago
Diego Simeone says Atlético Madrid must improve at the back to start winning again.
Atlético have had a difficult week with Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat at Liverpool following the 3-0 loss at Athletic Bilbao last weekend.
They return to La Liga action at Real Sociedad on Saturday seeking to rediscover the form that brought them seven points from their first three matches.
"We have room for improvement, but the team has done some very good things," Atlético boss Simeone said ahead of his side's trip to San Sebastián.
"We need to improve defensively to keep clean sheets and have more opportunities to improve because we've scored in every match except one.
#madrid #league #bilbao
Atlético have had a difficult week with Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat at Liverpool following the 3-0 loss at Athletic Bilbao last weekend.
They return to La Liga action at Real Sociedad on Saturday seeking to rediscover the form that brought them seven points from their first three matches.
"We have room for improvement, but the team has done some very good things," Atlético boss Simeone said ahead of his side's trip to San Sebastián.
"We need to improve defensively to keep clean sheets and have more opportunities to improve because we've scored in every match except one.
#madrid #league #bilbao
16 days ago
| Wednesday, September 9th |
Champions League | Anfield
8PM BST/3PM EST
Liverpool kick off the league phase of their 2026-27 Champions League campaign on Wednesday night under the lights at Anfield and while reality might always play out differently, on paper at least it seems likely to be the toughest test they will face before the knockout rounds—assuming, of course, that they make it that far.
It's also the first time new head coach Andoni Iraola will manage in the Champions League, having previously only managed AEK Larnaca in the Europa League in 2018-19, which required him to navigate six qualification matches before finishing third in their group behind Bayer Leverkusen and FC Zürich.
Wednesday, then, will be a much sterner test than he's faced before, at least in Europe. The Premier League though is no walk in the park, and Iraola has played and managed against Diego Simeone sides from his time as a player at Athletic Bilbao and then as a manager at Rayo Vallecano. One wouldn't expect, then, for anything he does see on Wednesday night to be truly unexpected or beyond his ability to prepare for.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1)
#least
Champions League | Anfield
8PM BST/3PM EST
Liverpool kick off the league phase of their 2026-27 Champions League campaign on Wednesday night under the lights at Anfield and while reality might always play out differently, on paper at least it seems likely to be the toughest test they will face before the knockout rounds—assuming, of course, that they make it that far.
It's also the first time new head coach Andoni Iraola will manage in the Champions League, having previously only managed AEK Larnaca in the Europa League in 2018-19, which required him to navigate six qualification matches before finishing third in their group behind Bayer Leverkusen and FC Zürich.
Wednesday, then, will be a much sterner test than he's faced before, at least in Europe. The Premier League though is no walk in the park, and Iraola has played and managed against Diego Simeone sides from his time as a player at Athletic Bilbao and then as a manager at Rayo Vallecano. One wouldn't expect, then, for anything he does see on Wednesday night to be truly unexpected or beyond his ability to prepare for.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup (4-2-3-1)
#least
17 days ago
Atlético de Madrid face Liverpool this Wednesday at 9 p.m., and they will do so without two attacking players.
The 24 players selected by Diego Pablo Simeone:
Sorloth, who is still injured, and Arnau Ortiz, through suspension, will miss the match.
The young Atlético forward misses out because of an old suspension dating back to his time playing in Poland.
Otherwise, Jonathan David, Cuti Romero and Julián Álvarez are all included in the squad as normal.
#players #suspension #simeone
The 24 players selected by Diego Pablo Simeone:
Sorloth, who is still injured, and Arnau Ortiz, through suspension, will miss the match.
The young Atlético forward misses out because of an old suspension dating back to his time playing in Poland.
Otherwise, Jonathan David, Cuti Romero and Julián Álvarez are all included in the squad as normal.
#players #suspension #simeone
17 days ago
Due to some sporadic runs of form and a very big helping hand from the footballing Gods, Liverpool found themselves qualifying for this season's Champions League and so the dream of more European nights at Anfield again became reality. For all of us Reds supporters and club it's the bare minimum requirement, and this writer has been luckily enough to have watched all six finals that Liverpool won, the first in 1977 when I was eight years old.
More importantly in the present moment, Wednesday evening is going to be the very first European game for head coach Andoni Iraola as head coach of any club, and let's hope that it will be even more than he could ever imagine because it's at Anfield and against one of the most difficult opponents in the Champions League in recent years in Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid.
Everyone involved in European football probably knows about those Famous European Nights at Anfield under the lights, but it's not all up to the supporters—the players will need to start in the right mood as they did against Ipswich, with intensity from the first whistle but unlike in that game the players won't be allowed to ease up until the final whistle is blown.
There is history between Liverpool and Atleti, with the Reds winning three of the seven times the clubs have faced off in the Champions League whilst Atletico have won two and then two draws between them. More than the match ups being fairly even there are the tough tactics of Simeone, who has a knack of getting under the skin of opposing managers as well his players being very physical in their play. It's going to be an interesting test for Iraola and the players but especially Liverpool's head coach as this will be his first experience of the Champions league and a congested fixture list.
"Big game, the first Champions League for me as a coach," Iraola noted during the post-Ipswich match interviews when he was asked about the approaching match against Atletico. "At Anfield, under the lights. I love to play at night."
#first
More importantly in the present moment, Wednesday evening is going to be the very first European game for head coach Andoni Iraola as head coach of any club, and let's hope that it will be even more than he could ever imagine because it's at Anfield and against one of the most difficult opponents in the Champions League in recent years in Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid.
Everyone involved in European football probably knows about those Famous European Nights at Anfield under the lights, but it's not all up to the supporters—the players will need to start in the right mood as they did against Ipswich, with intensity from the first whistle but unlike in that game the players won't be allowed to ease up until the final whistle is blown.
There is history between Liverpool and Atleti, with the Reds winning three of the seven times the clubs have faced off in the Champions League whilst Atletico have won two and then two draws between them. More than the match ups being fairly even there are the tough tactics of Simeone, who has a knack of getting under the skin of opposing managers as well his players being very physical in their play. It's going to be an interesting test for Iraola and the players but especially Liverpool's head coach as this will be his first experience of the Champions league and a congested fixture list.
"Big game, the first Champions League for me as a coach," Iraola noted during the post-Ipswich match interviews when he was asked about the approaching match against Atletico. "At Anfield, under the lights. I love to play at night."
#first
19 days ago
Small-town club Elversberg continued a dream start to its first-ever Bundesliga season with another upset win, beating Borussia Moenchengladbach 4-3 with a stoppage-time winner on Saturday.
In Spain, Athletic Bilbao struck three times in the second half to beat Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid 3-0, while Erling Haaland led Manchester City to another victory in the Premier League.
From a town of just 13,000 people, Elversberg stunned another former champion after its win over Bayer Leverkusen last week.
This time, Elversberg did it without coach Vincent Wagner, who was sent off at halftime, only for Maurice Krattenmacher to score the dramatic late winner.
Wagner will miss hosting champion Bayern Munich next week.
#week #small
In Spain, Athletic Bilbao struck three times in the second half to beat Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid 3-0, while Erling Haaland led Manchester City to another victory in the Premier League.
From a town of just 13,000 people, Elversberg stunned another former champion after its win over Bayer Leverkusen last week.
This time, Elversberg did it without coach Vincent Wagner, who was sent off at halftime, only for Maurice Krattenmacher to score the dramatic late winner.
Wagner will miss hosting champion Bayern Munich next week.
#week #small
20 days ago
In a recent report, journalist Mark Brus mentioned that Manchester City are locked in a three-way battle for Atletico Madrid winger Alex Baena. It is believed that the Mancunian giants would have to rival Newcastle United and Aston Villa in the race to land the Spanish wide player.
Baena has made an excellent start to this campaign as he put in a few productive displays for Atletico Madrid in the final third. The 25-year-old has scored three goals and grabbed one ***** ist in three appearances for Diego Simeone's side in the league.
The Spanish talent is currently among the most talented wingers in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to lure him to the Etihad Stadium next year.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out in the summer of 2030, which could make it tough for the Mancunian giants to snap him up on the cheap this January or at the end of the campaign.
MADRID, SPAIN – AUGUST 19: Alex Baena of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Malaga CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on August 19, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
#baena #three #city #mancunian
Baena has made an excellent start to this campaign as he put in a few productive displays for Atletico Madrid in the final third. The 25-year-old has scored three goals and grabbed one ***** ist in three appearances for Diego Simeone's side in the league.
The Spanish talent is currently among the most talented wingers in La Liga. Hence, Man City would do well to lure him to the Etihad Stadium next year.
His current contract at the Madrid club will run out in the summer of 2030, which could make it tough for the Mancunian giants to snap him up on the cheap this January or at the end of the campaign.
MADRID, SPAIN – AUGUST 19: Alex Baena of Atletico de Madrid celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the LaLiga EA Sports 2026/27 match between Atletico de Madrid and Malaga CF at Riyadh Air Metropolitano on August 19, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
#baena #three #city #mancunian
23 days ago
Atlético de Madrid on Tuesday pulled out of negotiations with Olympique Lyonnais to sign veteran left-back Nicolás Tagliafico before the summer transfer window shut.
Atlético's interest in Argentina international Tagliafico first came to us via David Medina and Isaac Suárez in Marca. Atlético were seeking a backup for Alejandro Grimaldo after long negotiations for Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas fell apart Tuesday; Salinas is staying at Racing after no club paid his €16 million release clause.
Tagliafico had been in negotiations to join Juventus before Atlético entered the race. According to Fabrizio Romano **** ociate Matteo Moretto, Tagliafico spoke directly to Diego Simeone and prioritized a move to Atleti, having accepted his role would be as a substitute. To make room for Tagliafico and his roughly €3 million gross salary, Mateu Alemany had to clear **** e in the squad by finding new destinations for multiple players, including Josema Giménez, Thomas Lemar, Carlos Martín and Obed Vargas.
While the sporting director moved out Giménez and Lemar on deadline day, Vargas and Carlos Martín stayed. That meant Atleti could not move forward with a Tagliafico transfer, especially as Lyon could not secure a replacement. French media first reported its collapse before Spanish media corroborated later in the day.
Tagliafico, who turned 34 on Monday, has spent the previous four seasons playing for Lyon, but the French side's aggregate loss to Fenerbahçe in the UEFA Champions League play-off round last week has put it in a bind. With Champions League income lost, Lyon need to sell players, and Tagliafico — entering the final year of his contract — was poised to be one of the casualties.
#negotiations
Atlético's interest in Argentina international Tagliafico first came to us via David Medina and Isaac Suárez in Marca. Atlético were seeking a backup for Alejandro Grimaldo after long negotiations for Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas fell apart Tuesday; Salinas is staying at Racing after no club paid his €16 million release clause.
Tagliafico had been in negotiations to join Juventus before Atlético entered the race. According to Fabrizio Romano **** ociate Matteo Moretto, Tagliafico spoke directly to Diego Simeone and prioritized a move to Atleti, having accepted his role would be as a substitute. To make room for Tagliafico and his roughly €3 million gross salary, Mateu Alemany had to clear **** e in the squad by finding new destinations for multiple players, including Josema Giménez, Thomas Lemar, Carlos Martín and Obed Vargas.
While the sporting director moved out Giménez and Lemar on deadline day, Vargas and Carlos Martín stayed. That meant Atleti could not move forward with a Tagliafico transfer, especially as Lyon could not secure a replacement. French media first reported its collapse before Spanish media corroborated later in the day.
Tagliafico, who turned 34 on Monday, has spent the previous four seasons playing for Lyon, but the French side's aggregate loss to Fenerbahçe in the UEFA Champions League play-off round last week has put it in a bind. With Champions League income lost, Lyon need to sell players, and Tagliafico — entering the final year of his contract — was poised to be one of the casualties.
#negotiations
23 days ago
The reshuffling of the Juventus attack has officially claimed its biggest outgoing move of deadline day.
Juventus have announced that forward Jonathan David has completed a transfer to Spanish side Atlético Madrid on an initial season-long loan deal for the 2026–27 campaign. The move gives Diego Simeone's side an option to make the transfer permanent next summer.
As Danny mentioned yesterday, this is a loan with an option to buy with no reported clauses that would turn the option into an obligation. The club is reporting that David moves to Madrid on a free loan for the season. If Atlético decide to trigger their option to buy next summer, the permanent transfer will cost them €25 million, payable over four financial years.
David's time in Turin comes to a temporary close after a single season. Arriving on a free transfer from Lille in the summer of 2025, he provided rotational cover upfront but struggled to establish himself. For Atlético, David's off-the-ball work rate and box movement fit seamlessly into Simeone's system, while the loan arrangement frees up valuable **** e on Juve's squad roster as deadline day comes to a close.
Good luck in Madrid, Jonathan!
#loan
Juventus have announced that forward Jonathan David has completed a transfer to Spanish side Atlético Madrid on an initial season-long loan deal for the 2026–27 campaign. The move gives Diego Simeone's side an option to make the transfer permanent next summer.
As Danny mentioned yesterday, this is a loan with an option to buy with no reported clauses that would turn the option into an obligation. The club is reporting that David moves to Madrid on a free loan for the season. If Atlético decide to trigger their option to buy next summer, the permanent transfer will cost them €25 million, payable over four financial years.
David's time in Turin comes to a temporary close after a single season. Arriving on a free transfer from Lille in the summer of 2025, he provided rotational cover upfront but struggled to establish himself. For Atlético, David's off-the-ball work rate and box movement fit seamlessly into Simeone's system, while the loan arrangement frees up valuable **** e on Juve's squad roster as deadline day comes to a close.
Good luck in Madrid, Jonathan!
#loan
25 days ago
Juventus are still hoping to shift Jonathan David before the close of the summer transfer window and the latest updates claim that Atletico Madrid have submitted a formal offer for the Canada international.
David joined Juventus on a free transfer last summer after five productive years in Ligue 1 with Lille, but failed to convince in Serie A in a disappointing season on a personal and collective level, which resulted in a fifth-place finish and no Champions League football for 2026-27.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Serie A match against SSC Napoli at Allianz Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Juventus have already brought in a new centre-forward this summer in Randal Kolo Muani, considered a direct replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, but the Bianconeri are also hoping to replace David before the end of the window as well.
According to the latest reports from Fabrizio Romano, Atletico Madrid have recently submitted an official offer to sign David on loan with an option to buy and that the Canada international is 'open' to joining Diego Simeone's side.
#david #juventus #jonathan
David joined Juventus on a free transfer last summer after five productive years in Ligue 1 with Lille, but failed to convince in Serie A in a disappointing season on a personal and collective level, which resulted in a fifth-place finish and no Champions League football for 2026-27.
TURIN, ITALY – JANUARY 25: Jonathan David of Juventus celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Serie A match against SSC Napoli at Allianz Stadium on January 25, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
Juventus have already brought in a new centre-forward this summer in Randal Kolo Muani, considered a direct replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, but the Bianconeri are also hoping to replace David before the end of the window as well.
According to the latest reports from Fabrizio Romano, Atletico Madrid have recently submitted an official offer to sign David on loan with an option to buy and that the Canada international is 'open' to joining Diego Simeone's side.
#david #juventus #jonathan
26 days ago
The footballing day has produced major headlines in Spain and beyond. Real Madrid are looking to make it three wins out of three in LALIGA, while FC Barcelona are facing the final hours of the transfer window at full speed.
Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid made a statement in Seville, Leo Messi delivered a historic performance in MLS, and the Premier League saw Liverpool held in a thrilling draw.
Real Madrid host Málaga at the Bernabéu aiming to make it nine points from a possible nine at the start of the league campaign. After two convincing victories, Los Blancos want to seal their flawless start to the season in front of their fans before the international fixtures.
FC Barcelona are focusing their efforts on finalising the squad in the closing stages of the transfer window. With Héctor Fort's departure to Real Sociedad already confirmed, the club's sporting department is working against the clock to complete more exits and secure the arrival of a No. 9 to complete Hansi Flick's attack.
Atlético de Madrid put doubts and uncertainty behind them with a significant 3-1 win at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. Amid constant rumours surrounding Julián Álvarez's future, Diego Simeone's side beat Sevilla thanks to a brilliant collective display led by Ademola Lookman and Alex Baena.
#league #tico
Meanwhile, Atlético de Madrid made a statement in Seville, Leo Messi delivered a historic performance in MLS, and the Premier League saw Liverpool held in a thrilling draw.
Real Madrid host Málaga at the Bernabéu aiming to make it nine points from a possible nine at the start of the league campaign. After two convincing victories, Los Blancos want to seal their flawless start to the season in front of their fans before the international fixtures.
FC Barcelona are focusing their efforts on finalising the squad in the closing stages of the transfer window. With Héctor Fort's departure to Real Sociedad already confirmed, the club's sporting department is working against the clock to complete more exits and secure the arrival of a No. 9 to complete Hansi Flick's attack.
Atlético de Madrid put doubts and uncertainty behind them with a significant 3-1 win at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán. Amid constant rumours surrounding Julián Álvarez's future, Diego Simeone's side beat Sevilla thanks to a brilliant collective display led by Ademola Lookman and Alex Baena.
#league #tico
26 days ago
Alex Baena bagged a brace and Ademola Lookman was also on target as Atlético Madrid claimed a statement 3-1 win at Sevilla on Saturday.
The hosts had made a bright start to their La Liga campaign by winning both their opening two fixtures but they were three goals down after 33 minutes after Baena struck either side of Lookman's goal.
Miguel Sierra scored midway through the second half but it was a mere consolation as Atlético maintained their unbeaten start to the season, moving on to seven points after three matches.
Handed his first start of the term – after coming off the bench in the win over Malaga and the draw against Villarreal – Baena wasted little time in vindicating Diego Simeone's decision.
Lee Kang-In cut in from the right before playing a cute through ball to Baena, who shot first-time across Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos from an acute angle into the net after four minutes.
#baena #three #time
The hosts had made a bright start to their La Liga campaign by winning both their opening two fixtures but they were three goals down after 33 minutes after Baena struck either side of Lookman's goal.
Miguel Sierra scored midway through the second half but it was a mere consolation as Atlético maintained their unbeaten start to the season, moving on to seven points after three matches.
Handed his first start of the term – after coming off the bench in the win over Malaga and the draw against Villarreal – Baena wasted little time in vindicating Diego Simeone's decision.
Lee Kang-In cut in from the right before playing a cute through ball to Baena, who shot first-time across Sevilla goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos from an acute angle into the net after four minutes.
#baena #three #time
27 days ago
The summer transfer market has been shaken by Álvaro Morata's surprising move to CD Leganés, while the latest sports headlines are dominated by Julián Álvarez's absence from Atlético de Madrid's trip to Seville and FC Barcelona's tactical adjustments in attack.
The Madrid-born striker is behind the summer's biggest move after joining CD Leganés on loan from Como. The deal shakes up the second tier and makes the Spain international Leganés' main ***** et in their bid to return to the top flight.
For his part, Diego Simeone heads into the visit to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán without a recognized centre-forward after Julián Álvarez was confirmed unavailable. The Argentine's absence, prompted by his refusal to train during the final stretch of the transfer window, puts even more focus on the tactical setup the rojiblancos will use in Seville.
Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Hansi Flick is drawing up attacking alternatives. Faced with the complicated scenario of signing Julián Álvarez, the coaching staff are considering redeploying Raphinha as an out-and-out No. 9, trusting in his movement and finishing to lead the blaugrana attack.
On the international stage, the European draws have handed demanding matchups to Celta de Vigo and Real Sociedad in the Europa League, while Getafe will face more manageable fixtures in the Conference League.
#legan #seville #transfer #international
The Madrid-born striker is behind the summer's biggest move after joining CD Leganés on loan from Como. The deal shakes up the second tier and makes the Spain international Leganés' main ***** et in their bid to return to the top flight.
For his part, Diego Simeone heads into the visit to the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán without a recognized centre-forward after Julián Álvarez was confirmed unavailable. The Argentine's absence, prompted by his refusal to train during the final stretch of the transfer window, puts even more focus on the tactical setup the rojiblancos will use in Seville.
Meanwhile, in Barcelona, Hansi Flick is drawing up attacking alternatives. Faced with the complicated scenario of signing Julián Álvarez, the coaching staff are considering redeploying Raphinha as an out-and-out No. 9, trusting in his movement and finishing to lead the blaugrana attack.
On the international stage, the European draws have handed demanding matchups to Celta de Vigo and Real Sociedad in the Europa League, while Getafe will face more manageable fixtures in the Conference League.
#legan #seville #transfer #international
28 days ago
Coming off a back-and-forth 2-2 draw against Villarreal, Diego Simeone's Atlético de Madrid side will travel to Sevilla this Saturday in hopes of securing their second win of the young season.
Sevilla have won both of their opening matches in La Liga: a last-second 2-1 victory against Rayo Vallecano and then a surprising 3-1 victory at Athletic Bilbao. Their intense pressing and counterattacking speed has been a key factor in their early success. Additionally, their ability to draw fouls in dangerous areas has caused havoc for their opponents. Sevilla thus far have drawn a pair of penalties and two red cards across their opening two games.
The two clubs faced each other most recently in April, when a penalty from Akor Adams (now playing at Venezia) and a thumping header from Nemanja Gudelj (now a free agent) helped the Andalusian side past Atlético, 2-1, in La Liga's first retro weekend.
Similar to the previous match day, Simeone will have to navigate player fitness concerns following the summer's World Cup, as well as the ongoing Julián Alvarez transfer soap opera.
Summer signing Cuti Romero is unlikely to start, as the coaching staff does not want to rush the defender into the starting 11 until they feel he is ready to perform. It has also been confirmed that Alvarez, who missed his third consecutive team training session in a row amid his rumored exit to ****** nal, will not play on Saturday at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán. Robin Le Normand will also be unavailable, as he will be serving a one-game suspension after his red card against Villarreal.
#sevilla #side #second #victory
Sevilla have won both of their opening matches in La Liga: a last-second 2-1 victory against Rayo Vallecano and then a surprising 3-1 victory at Athletic Bilbao. Their intense pressing and counterattacking speed has been a key factor in their early success. Additionally, their ability to draw fouls in dangerous areas has caused havoc for their opponents. Sevilla thus far have drawn a pair of penalties and two red cards across their opening two games.
The two clubs faced each other most recently in April, when a penalty from Akor Adams (now playing at Venezia) and a thumping header from Nemanja Gudelj (now a free agent) helped the Andalusian side past Atlético, 2-1, in La Liga's first retro weekend.
Similar to the previous match day, Simeone will have to navigate player fitness concerns following the summer's World Cup, as well as the ongoing Julián Alvarez transfer soap opera.
Summer signing Cuti Romero is unlikely to start, as the coaching staff does not want to rush the defender into the starting 11 until they feel he is ready to perform. It has also been confirmed that Alvarez, who missed his third consecutive team training session in a row amid his rumored exit to ****** nal, will not play on Saturday at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán. Robin Le Normand will also be unavailable, as he will be serving a one-game suspension after his red card against Villarreal.
#sevilla #side #second #victory
28 days ago
Diego Simeone says he will "do everything" he can to make Julian Alvarez "feel important" at Atletico Madrid when the forward returns to training, as uncertainty continues over his situation at the Spanish club.
It comes as Atletico Madrid made it clear that they would not sell him to Barcelona, with a move to **** nal looking like the striker's only way out.
Simeone confirmed Alvarez will not travel with Atletico for Saturday's La Liga game at Sevilla saying he is not currently in good health, having missed his third consecutive training session on Friday.
"From the moment he returns to training, I will do everything I can to make him feel important," said Atletico manager Simeone.
Asked whether Alvarez's situation could still be reversed, Simeone added: "As long as you have your health, everything in life can be turned around."
#simeone #training
It comes as Atletico Madrid made it clear that they would not sell him to Barcelona, with a move to **** nal looking like the striker's only way out.
Simeone confirmed Alvarez will not travel with Atletico for Saturday's La Liga game at Sevilla saying he is not currently in good health, having missed his third consecutive training session on Friday.
"From the moment he returns to training, I will do everything I can to make him feel important," said Atletico manager Simeone.
Asked whether Alvarez's situation could still be reversed, Simeone added: "As long as you have your health, everything in life can be turned around."
#simeone #training
28 days ago
Another chapter has opened in the 'Julian Alvarez case'.
Following the public exchange between Atleti CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin and Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste after the Champions League draw, Los Colchoneros manager Diego Simeone faced the media today ahead of their match against Sevilla.
The coach once again gave his view on the summer's biggest transfer saga, involving Alvarez, Barcelona, and Atletico.
Speaking to the media, Simeone confirmed that Alvarez will miss the match after sitting out the last three training sessions, but he remained optimistic when asked whether the striker's situation could eventually be turned around at the Metropolitano.
"I understand that all the questions are going to be about what is happening with Julian. The club was very firm and clear in what it explained," Simeone explained, as quoted by SPORT.
#alvarez #Media #explained #miguel
Following the public exchange between Atleti CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin and Barcelona vice president Rafa Yuste after the Champions League draw, Los Colchoneros manager Diego Simeone faced the media today ahead of their match against Sevilla.
The coach once again gave his view on the summer's biggest transfer saga, involving Alvarez, Barcelona, and Atletico.
Speaking to the media, Simeone confirmed that Alvarez will miss the match after sitting out the last three training sessions, but he remained optimistic when asked whether the striker's situation could eventually be turned around at the Metropolitano.
"I understand that all the questions are going to be about what is happening with Julian. The club was very firm and clear in what it explained," Simeone explained, as quoted by SPORT.
#alvarez #Media #explained #miguel
30 days ago
Julian Alvarez is headline news again on Wednesday as he's not training with Atletico Madrid as Diego Simeone's side prepare to face Sevilla in La Liga.
The forward's absence will likely get the rumor mill all excited but the explanation given is that he's simply not feeling well and has a stomach upset.
Reporter Ruben Uria posted on X: "We have been able to confirm that the Argentine forward will not participate today in the Atlético de Madrid training session, scheduled for this morning. The Argentine will not train today with the team. Julián had a bad night and is suffering from an upset stomach."
Alvarez is undoubtedly going through a difficult time right now. He was whistled by Atletico fans at the weekend against Villarreal after asking for a transfer at the World Cup.
Atletico Madrid refuse to sell the forward, despite his desire to move on, but Barcelona continue to monitor the situation in case Los Colchoneros decide to change their stance before the window closes next week.
#atletico #argentine #stomach #today
The forward's absence will likely get the rumor mill all excited but the explanation given is that he's simply not feeling well and has a stomach upset.
Reporter Ruben Uria posted on X: "We have been able to confirm that the Argentine forward will not participate today in the Atlético de Madrid training session, scheduled for this morning. The Argentine will not train today with the team. Julián had a bad night and is suffering from an upset stomach."
Alvarez is undoubtedly going through a difficult time right now. He was whistled by Atletico fans at the weekend against Villarreal after asking for a transfer at the World Cup.
Atletico Madrid refuse to sell the forward, despite his desire to move on, but Barcelona continue to monitor the situation in case Los Colchoneros decide to change their stance before the window closes next week.
#atletico #argentine #stomach #today
30 days ago
Atletico Madrid are facing a transfer headache over Julian Alvarez.
The 26-year-old Argentina international is ******* bent on leaving Diego Simeone's club. But Atletico are refusing to budge on their €150m valuation - and have decided not to do business with Barcelona.
It leaves ******* nal as the only real, viable option for the FIFA World Cup winner should he get his transfer wish this summer. And any potential deal which sees the former Manchester City forward depart is set to have big ramifications for Liverpool.
Because a report in Fichajes now claims that Federico Chiesa is wanted as a stop-gap replacement for the striker.
"Atlético Madrid have identified Federico Chiesa, the 28-year-old Liverpool striker, as an alternative to fill the gap in their attack should Julián Álvarez ultimately leave," the report reads.
#transfer #report #striker #julian
The 26-year-old Argentina international is ******* bent on leaving Diego Simeone's club. But Atletico are refusing to budge on their €150m valuation - and have decided not to do business with Barcelona.
It leaves ******* nal as the only real, viable option for the FIFA World Cup winner should he get his transfer wish this summer. And any potential deal which sees the former Manchester City forward depart is set to have big ramifications for Liverpool.
Because a report in Fichajes now claims that Federico Chiesa is wanted as a stop-gap replacement for the striker.
"Atlético Madrid have identified Federico Chiesa, the 28-year-old Liverpool striker, as an alternative to fill the gap in their attack should Julián Álvarez ultimately leave," the report reads.
#transfer #report #striker #julian
1 month ago
Juventus want another attacker, and the Old Lady is not relying heavily on Nicolas Gonzalez, meaning they could sacrifice him in a deal for one of their main summer targets, Alexander Sorloth.
Sorloth is a player the Bianconeri have followed for months, and Luciano Spalletti likes the profile of the Norwegian star. The Juventus manager would therefore be delighted to have him in his squad and could see him as an important addition to the team's attacking options.
Atletico Madrid do not want to sell their best players, but Sorloth could be allowed to leave under the right conditions. The Spanish side remains interested in signing Gonzalez, creating the possibility of a deal that could benefit both clubs.
Gonzalez spent last season on loan at Atletico Madrid and performed well. Diego Simeone is keen to bring him back, while the Argentinian also wants to return to Madrid, making a potential move appealing to the player.
This has created the conditions for the two clubs to potentially swap players. Tuttomercatoweb reveals that Juventus are also considering a swap deal that would see Sorloth become a member of their squad while Gonzalez returns to Atletico Madrid.
#juventus
Sorloth is a player the Bianconeri have followed for months, and Luciano Spalletti likes the profile of the Norwegian star. The Juventus manager would therefore be delighted to have him in his squad and could see him as an important addition to the team's attacking options.
Atletico Madrid do not want to sell their best players, but Sorloth could be allowed to leave under the right conditions. The Spanish side remains interested in signing Gonzalez, creating the possibility of a deal that could benefit both clubs.
Gonzalez spent last season on loan at Atletico Madrid and performed well. Diego Simeone is keen to bring him back, while the Argentinian also wants to return to Madrid, making a potential move appealing to the player.
This has created the conditions for the two clubs to potentially swap players. Tuttomercatoweb reveals that Juventus are also considering a swap deal that would see Sorloth become a member of their squad while Gonzalez returns to Atletico Madrid.
#juventus
1 month ago
Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has criticised Barcelona over their pursuit of striker Julian Alvarez this summer.
Alvarez said during the World Cup he wanted out of Atletico but remains with Diego Simeone's side heading into the start of the new La Liga season.
Barcelona remain keen on the Argentina international but Cerezo says his club have never wanted to sell and added Barcelona have "not risen to the occasion."
"I believe, and the only thing I can say after a rather complicated summer with the constant questions about Julián Álvarez, is that he is an Atlético de Madrid player, that he has always been an Atlético de Madrid player , and that we never intended to sell him, " he told he told El Desmarque.
"He is an Atlético de Madrid player who is available to the coach whenever the coach wants him. What I believe is that FC Barcelona has not risen to the occasion and has not done what it usually does in these cases."
#cerezo
Alvarez said during the World Cup he wanted out of Atletico but remains with Diego Simeone's side heading into the start of the new La Liga season.
Barcelona remain keen on the Argentina international but Cerezo says his club have never wanted to sell and added Barcelona have "not risen to the occasion."
"I believe, and the only thing I can say after a rather complicated summer with the constant questions about Julián Álvarez, is that he is an Atlético de Madrid player, that he has always been an Atlético de Madrid player , and that we never intended to sell him, " he told he told El Desmarque.
"He is an Atlético de Madrid player who is available to the coach whenever the coach wants him. What I believe is that FC Barcelona has not risen to the occasion and has not done what it usually does in these cases."
#cerezo
1 month ago
Atletico Madrid is set to face Villarreal in their second La Liga encounter at their home ground on Sunday.
Date: Sunday, 23rd August.
Kick-off: 4pm BST.
Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid.
Diego Simeone faces an intriguing blend of major injury setbacks and exciting personnel returns ahead of today's clash.
#liga #riyadh
Date: Sunday, 23rd August.
Kick-off: 4pm BST.
Venue: Riyadh Air Metropolitano, Madrid.
Diego Simeone faces an intriguing blend of major injury setbacks and exciting personnel returns ahead of today's clash.
#liga #riyadh
1 month ago
Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has provided an update on the status of star attacker Julián Alvarez for the club's next outing. This of course comes amid the ongoing speculation surrounding the name of the Argentine.
Atlético are primed to kick their 2026/27 campaign back into gear on Sunday evening, in a high-profile Gameweek 2 meeting with Villarreal. The Rojiblancos head into the matchup hopeful of making it two wins from two to open the new season in Spain's top-flight.
In the days leading up to the clash, much of the chatter in Spain's capital has continued to center on the situation of the aforementioned Julián Alvarez, who sat out his side's season opener against Málaga.
Alvarez has again been hotly tipped for a Metropolitano exit this week, amid a fresh round of links with Premier League champions ***** nal.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Saturday, the subject of his fellow countryman's status to face Villarreal in 24 hours' time was therefore put to the aforementioned Diego Simeone.
#simeone #juli #head
Atlético are primed to kick their 2026/27 campaign back into gear on Sunday evening, in a high-profile Gameweek 2 meeting with Villarreal. The Rojiblancos head into the matchup hopeful of making it two wins from two to open the new season in Spain's top-flight.
In the days leading up to the clash, much of the chatter in Spain's capital has continued to center on the situation of the aforementioned Julián Alvarez, who sat out his side's season opener against Málaga.
Alvarez has again been hotly tipped for a Metropolitano exit this week, amid a fresh round of links with Premier League champions ***** nal.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Saturday, the subject of his fellow countryman's status to face Villarreal in 24 hours' time was therefore put to the aforementioned Diego Simeone.
#simeone #juli #head
1 month ago
Atletico Madrid began the 2026/27 La Liga season with a 2-0 victory over Malaga, but the biggest story from the night had little to do with the result.
Julian Alvarez was nowhere to be seen.
The Argentine forward was not only absent from Diego Simeone's starting XI but left out of the matchday squad altogether, with his omission coming as speculation over a possible Atletico Madrid exit continues to grow.
Simeone had attempted to calm the situation before the game, explaining that Alvarez needed additional training after his recent international commitments with Argentina.
However, his absence did not stop Barcelona transfer links from dominating the atmosphere around Atletico's opening match.
#liga
Julian Alvarez was nowhere to be seen.
The Argentine forward was not only absent from Diego Simeone's starting XI but left out of the matchday squad altogether, with his omission coming as speculation over a possible Atletico Madrid exit continues to grow.
Simeone had attempted to calm the situation before the game, explaining that Alvarez needed additional training after his recent international commitments with Argentina.
However, his absence did not stop Barcelona transfer links from dominating the atmosphere around Atletico's opening match.
#liga
1 month ago
Barcelona's interest in Julian Alvarez continues to create headlines, with Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone forced to address the situation after his side opened their 2026/27 La Liga campaign with a 2-0 win over Malaga.
The Argentine forward did not feature in the match as he continues working towards full match fitness.
However, even in his absence from the pitch, Alvarez remained one of the main talking points around the Metropolitano.
Barcelona's interest in the Atletico star has added further tension to the situation.
While the Catalan club are understood to be exploring different options to strengthen their attack, Alvarez remains one of the names linked with a potential move.
#alvarez #interest #julian
The Argentine forward did not feature in the match as he continues working towards full match fitness.
However, even in his absence from the pitch, Alvarez remained one of the main talking points around the Metropolitano.
Barcelona's interest in the Atletico star has added further tension to the situation.
While the Catalan club are understood to be exploring different options to strengthen their attack, Alvarez remains one of the names linked with a potential move.
#alvarez #interest #julian
1 month ago
Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone on Tuesday made use of the opportunity to send another unwavering transfer message the way of Barcelona. This of course comes amid the latter's ongoing pursuit of Rojiblancos star Julián Alvarez.
It is of course Spanish football's worst-kept secret that the Camp Nou brass have set their sights on the signature of frontman Alvarez with a view to next season. Amid an ongoing search for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, the 26-year-old has been identified as the ideal fit for Hansi Flick's setup.
Efforts to make the transfer a reality have, in turn, been ongoing for several months now.
Barca's push, however, has been met time and time again with complete resistance on the part of those in the boardroom at La Liga rivals Atlético Madrid.
And if the latest comments on the part of the aforementioned Diego Simeone are anything to go by, then this stance looks unlikely to change over the weeks ahead.
#diego #time
It is of course Spanish football's worst-kept secret that the Camp Nou brass have set their sights on the signature of frontman Alvarez with a view to next season. Amid an ongoing search for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, the 26-year-old has been identified as the ideal fit for Hansi Flick's setup.
Efforts to make the transfer a reality have, in turn, been ongoing for several months now.
Barca's push, however, has been met time and time again with complete resistance on the part of those in the boardroom at La Liga rivals Atlético Madrid.
And if the latest comments on the part of the aforementioned Diego Simeone are anything to go by, then this stance looks unlikely to change over the weeks ahead.
#diego #time
1 month ago
Diego Simeone has made it "perfectly clear" that Julian Alvarez will not be joining wither ****** nal or Barcelona in the summer transfer window.
The Atletico Madrid forward is set to miss Wednesday's La Liga opener against Malaga after agitating for a move away in recent months.
Barcelona registered their interest in the Argentina international while he was at the FIFA World Cup and ****** nal are also said to be interested in him as they are in the market for a top-class left-sided attacker.
Earlier this summer, Atleti CEO Miguel Angel Gil insisted the club did not want to sell Alvarez and would not even consider a £170 million offer.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Simeone reiterated the owner's stance and said the 26-year-old is staying put.
#simeone #summer
The Atletico Madrid forward is set to miss Wednesday's La Liga opener against Malaga after agitating for a move away in recent months.
Barcelona registered their interest in the Argentina international while he was at the FIFA World Cup and ****** nal are also said to be interested in him as they are in the market for a top-class left-sided attacker.
Earlier this summer, Atleti CEO Miguel Angel Gil insisted the club did not want to sell Alvarez and would not even consider a £170 million offer.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Simeone reiterated the owner's stance and said the 26-year-old is staying put.
#simeone #summer
1 month ago
Kevin De Bruyne is Manchester City's greatest ever player. Erling Haaland will hoover up the club's goalscoring records; or those he does not already possess, anyway. Bernardo Silva made the most appearances of anyone for City in the last four decades, the most under Pep Guardiola and felt the manager's favourite.
And yet perhaps the Barcelona-bound Rodri was the definitive player of Guardiola's time at the Etihad Stadium. It helped, of course, that he scored the most momentous goal, the one that finally made City champions of Europe. Rodri against Inter in Istanbul: few supporters will ever need an explanation of that.
Rodri bids farewell to Manchester City after a talismanic spell at the club (PA)
Rodri was a colossal figure but also a symbolic one. Guardiola's football stemmed from the midfield and Rodri was the controller supreme, with a pass completion rate forever in the nineties and an ability to win the ball back. He was simultaneously a constructive and destructive presence. He played in Guardiola's old position; yet he smashed through the glass ceiling for defensive midfielders.
None had won the Ballon d'Or, arguably, since Josef Masopust in 1962. Rodri did. None had ever won the World Cup's Golden Ball. Rodri did. He arrived at the Etihad Stadium with the suspicion he may have been overpriced, having to adapt from Diego Simeone's football to Guardiola's, at the end of a long search for Fernandinho's successor which had taken in midfielders as different – from each other as from him – as Fred and Jorginho.
#player
And yet perhaps the Barcelona-bound Rodri was the definitive player of Guardiola's time at the Etihad Stadium. It helped, of course, that he scored the most momentous goal, the one that finally made City champions of Europe. Rodri against Inter in Istanbul: few supporters will ever need an explanation of that.
Rodri bids farewell to Manchester City after a talismanic spell at the club (PA)
Rodri was a colossal figure but also a symbolic one. Guardiola's football stemmed from the midfield and Rodri was the controller supreme, with a pass completion rate forever in the nineties and an ability to win the ball back. He was simultaneously a constructive and destructive presence. He played in Guardiola's old position; yet he smashed through the glass ceiling for defensive midfielders.
None had won the Ballon d'Or, arguably, since Josef Masopust in 1962. Rodri did. None had ever won the World Cup's Golden Ball. Rodri did. He arrived at the Etihad Stadium with the suspicion he may have been overpriced, having to adapt from Diego Simeone's football to Guardiola's, at the end of a long search for Fernandinho's successor which had taken in midfielders as different – from each other as from him – as Fred and Jorginho.
#player
1 month ago
The situation around Julian Alvarez is beginning to reach an uncomfortable point for everyone involved.
Barcelona have made their intentions clear that the Argentine is their preferred choice to lead the attack, and an offer of €100 million is still awaiting a response.
Alvarez, meanwhile, wants the move, but the problem is Atletico Madrid.
Ever since Barcelona's interest became public, Atletico have not softened their position and continue to plan for the striker as part of Diego Simeone's squad for the 2026-27 season.
The Argentine coach has already communicated that message directly to his player, leaving Alvarez caught between the club he currently represents and the move he wants to make.
#atletico #move #julian #diego
Barcelona have made their intentions clear that the Argentine is their preferred choice to lead the attack, and an offer of €100 million is still awaiting a response.
Alvarez, meanwhile, wants the move, but the problem is Atletico Madrid.
Ever since Barcelona's interest became public, Atletico have not softened their position and continue to plan for the striker as part of Diego Simeone's squad for the 2026-27 season.
The Argentine coach has already communicated that message directly to his player, leaving Alvarez caught between the club he currently represents and the move he wants to make.
#atletico #move #julian #diego
1 month ago
Cristian Romero on Saturday completed his move to Atlético de Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur, after a club-to-club agreement was reached on Wednesday.
Romero on Friday flew to Madrid, underwent his medical and signed his new contract to 2031. The 28-year-old took training for the first time on Saturday, and he could be in the squad Wednesday when Atlético host Malága to begin its 2026/27 campaign. Romero had drawn interest from Inter Milan, FC Barcelona and even Spurs' city rivals ***** nal, once it became clear that the Argentina international would be leaving Tottenham; he said goodbye to Spurs fans in a video posted to social media on Friday.
Sporting director Mateu Alemany has closed this deal for an initial fee of €33 million, according to Marca. The Madrid daily reports that Spurs can receive another €7 million in bonuses. Spurs will retain a 15 percent sell-on clause, per reports in England. The fee is in line with each of the other deals Alemany has concluded this summer, the exception being Alejandro Grimaldo's €20 million move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Diego Simeone had long courted Romero, a 58-time Argentina international who led Spurs to a Europa League crown in 2025. Atleti attempted to sign him last year, but Spurs slapped an €80 million price tag on Romero and eventually renewed his contract to 2029 while naming him club captain. One summer later, after a turbulent campaign that saw Romero rip club management multiple times, Spurs are moving on — and Simeone is getting his top defensive target at last.
Following a 156-game Spurs career, Romero is expected to be the anchor of a refurbished defense at the Metropolitano. He can line up in a trio alongside Dávid Hancko and Marc Pubill to form a 3-5-2 where Grimaldo and Marcos Llorente would play as wing-backs. He can play in a four-man defense alongside either Hancko or Pubill; the other could slide over to full-back.
#SPURS #club #TOTTENHAM
Romero on Friday flew to Madrid, underwent his medical and signed his new contract to 2031. The 28-year-old took training for the first time on Saturday, and he could be in the squad Wednesday when Atlético host Malága to begin its 2026/27 campaign. Romero had drawn interest from Inter Milan, FC Barcelona and even Spurs' city rivals ***** nal, once it became clear that the Argentina international would be leaving Tottenham; he said goodbye to Spurs fans in a video posted to social media on Friday.
Sporting director Mateu Alemany has closed this deal for an initial fee of €33 million, according to Marca. The Madrid daily reports that Spurs can receive another €7 million in bonuses. Spurs will retain a 15 percent sell-on clause, per reports in England. The fee is in line with each of the other deals Alemany has concluded this summer, the exception being Alejandro Grimaldo's €20 million move from Bayer Leverkusen.
Diego Simeone had long courted Romero, a 58-time Argentina international who led Spurs to a Europa League crown in 2025. Atleti attempted to sign him last year, but Spurs slapped an €80 million price tag on Romero and eventually renewed his contract to 2029 while naming him club captain. One summer later, after a turbulent campaign that saw Romero rip club management multiple times, Spurs are moving on — and Simeone is getting his top defensive target at last.
Following a 156-game Spurs career, Romero is expected to be the anchor of a refurbished defense at the Metropolitano. He can line up in a trio alongside Dávid Hancko and Marc Pubill to form a 3-5-2 where Grimaldo and Marcos Llorente would play as wing-backs. He can play in a four-man defense alongside either Hancko or Pubill; the other could slide over to full-back.
#SPURS #club #TOTTENHAM
1 month ago
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - AUGUST 09: Atletico Madrid players pose during the preseason friendly match between Manchester City and Atletico Madrid at Seoul World Cup Stadium on August 09, 2026 in Seoul, South Korea. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun/Getty Images)
Atletico Madrid enter 2026/27 without their all-time top scorer Antoine Griezmann, replacing him not with one successor but with a reshaped attack built around a group of returning World Cup winner and three new signings.
After a preseason campaign which saw Atleti crash to consecutive defeats to Manchester United and Manchester City sandwiched in between wins over Getafe and Marseille.
Los Colchoneros now look to build on last season's fourth-placed finish, a joint-worst performance since Diego Simeone's debut season in 2011/12. 2025/26 compensated with thrilling cup runs to the final of the Copa del Rey and semifinal of the UEFA Champions League, but ultimately left the squad empty-handed for a fifth consecutive season.
Simeone remains the most tenured manager in Europe's top five leagues, and the calculus around him has not changed: Atletico finished fourth in La Liga last season, secured Champions League qualification, but fell in the semi-finals to ***** nal after a topsy-turvy continental campaign.
#season
Atletico Madrid enter 2026/27 without their all-time top scorer Antoine Griezmann, replacing him not with one successor but with a reshaped attack built around a group of returning World Cup winner and three new signings.
After a preseason campaign which saw Atleti crash to consecutive defeats to Manchester United and Manchester City sandwiched in between wins over Getafe and Marseille.
Los Colchoneros now look to build on last season's fourth-placed finish, a joint-worst performance since Diego Simeone's debut season in 2011/12. 2025/26 compensated with thrilling cup runs to the final of the Copa del Rey and semifinal of the UEFA Champions League, but ultimately left the squad empty-handed for a fifth consecutive season.
Simeone remains the most tenured manager in Europe's top five leagues, and the calculus around him has not changed: Atletico finished fourth in La Liga last season, secured Champions League qualification, but fell in the semi-finals to ***** nal after a topsy-turvy continental campaign.
#season
