Remembering the Atlético B that sparked dreams of promotion
It has been five years since Atlético de Madrid B managed to compete in the promotion playoffs to the Second Division. The last time, under the direction of Nacho Fernández, a team full of talent and ambition caressed the dream.
Names like Riquelme, Camello, and Germán Valera shone in that youth team that left its mark. Of that squad, Juan Román Riquelme is the only one who has established himself in the first team, even reaching the national team.
Camello and Manu Sánchez also enjoy a solid career in the top category of Spanish football. Others like Toni Moya have also had the opportunity to play under Simeone. Many of the players from that Atlético B found their way into professional football, demonstrating the club’s good training work.
Ricard Sánchez is a pillar at Granada, while Juanma Sanabria has established himself at Atlético San Luis. Óscar Clemente, for his part, has significant experience in the Second Division. Nacho Fernández himself highlights the importance of instilling in young people the ability to compete at the highest level.
‘It was a generation with great talent. But they learned that as important as talent is knowing how to compete,’ recalls the coach. That team not only came close to promotion but also served as a springboard for many players to fulfill their dreams in professional football.
