2023-11 Sport
01.11.2023 17:01 / Sport
“Simeone will remain the highest paid in the world”
Atlético de Madrid is close to renewing Diego Pablo Simeone, making him the highest paid coach in the world. According to ‘El Español’, his agent and sister, Natalia, is finalizing an agreement with the club’s board that would amount to a total of 105 million euros until the summer of 2027.
This would be the sixth renewal they sign and would keep Simeone at the top of the salary ranking. It is also reported that a portion of his salary will be prorated over three years. If this agreement is completed, Simeone would complete 16 seasons on the Atlético de Madrid bench, a record for Spanish football.
Currently, his contract ties him until June 2024. In the current season, Atlético de Madrid has had an outstanding performance, accumulating 15 consecutive victories, including 14 in LaLiga. If they win against Las Palmas, they could sleep as leaders even with one less game.
02.11.2023 10:22 / Sport
“Lautaro, close to joining Atlético”
Lautaro Martínez was on the verge of joining Atlético de Madrid before signing with Inter Milan. Piero Ausilio, former sporting director of Inter, revealed in an interview that the agreement with the Spanish club was almost finalized at 99%.
However, Inter intervened and convinced Racing Club to change the destination of the Argentine international. Ausilio also mentioned that it was a complicated situation, but they eventually reached an agreement for Lautaro to join Inter for 25 million euros. He also highlighted that after making the decision to join the Italian club, Lautaro had a great match, scoring three goals and winning a penalty. Ausilio had the assistance of Javier Zanetti and Diego Milito during the negotiations.
03.11.2023 08:45 / Sport
“Las Palmas - Atlético
Atlético de Madrid aims to sleep at the top of the standings with a victory against Las Palmas. Although the statistics favor the Madrid team, Las Palmas enters the match as the tenth-placed team and in good form.
Atlético, on the other hand, comes from achieving their sixth consecutive victory in LaLiga and has the best individual performance from some players, such as Morata. Both Simeone and García Pimienta praise the opposing team and show mutual respect. As for the lineups, Atlético presents some changes, including the inclusion of Pablo Barrios in the starting eleven. The match will be played at the Gran Canaria Stadium at 9:00 PM (CET).
03.11.2023 23:30 / Sport
“Atlético loses leadership in Gran Canaria”
In a brave and skillful match, Las Palmas defeated Atlético de Madrid 2-1, preventing the rojiblancos from taking the top spot in the league. Goals from Kirian and Benito in the second half ended Atlético’s six-game winning streak and their dominance in Canary Islands during the Simeone era.
Despite Morata’s late goal and a strong finish from Atlético, including a shot from Barrios that was saved by Vallés, Las Palmas deservedly took all three points. The atmosphere at the Gran Canaria Stadium was electric, with over 30,000 fans cheering on their team. Atlético had the opportunity to claim the leadership, but couldn’t overcome the challenge posed by Las Palmas.
09.11.2023 19:23 / Sport
“Simeone, expanding his legend on the sidelines”
Diego Pablo Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, continues to build his legacy on the sidelines. Since his arrival at the club in 2011, Simeone has led the team to great achievements and established Atlético as one of the top clubs in Europe.
In his first season, he won the Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup. In the following season, he conquered the Copa del Rey, defeating Real Madrid in the final. Additionally, the team showed consistency in both performance and results, finishing third in La Liga.
Simeone also guided Atlético to compete for the league title and the Champions League, although they fell short of winning the latter. Despite that, the Argentine coach has left an indelible mark on the club and continues to seek further success in the future.
09.11.2023 19:32 / Sport
“Atlético de Madrid soars after hitting rock bottom”
A year ago, Atlético de Madrid suffered a tough defeat against Mallorca, which marked a turning point in their season. However, since then, the team has undergone a radical change.
After a Copa del Rey match and a World Cup break, Simeone’s players have shown their best version, competing with Real Madrid for the runner-up position last season. In this season, they currently occupy the fourth position in LaLiga and lead their group in the Champions League after a resounding victory against Celtic. Players like Nahuel Molina, De Paul, and Mario Hermoso have become key pieces in the starting lineup.
09.11.2023 19:18 / Sport
“Simeone renews with Atlético de Madrid until 2027”
Atlético de Madrid has officially announced the renewal of Diego Pablo Simeone’s contract until June 2027. The Argentine coach, who has been at the helm of the team for over a decade, will accept a salary reduction to comply with the club’s new salary cap.
Simeone joined Atlético in the 11/12 season and has since broken the dominance of Barcelona and Real Madrid in LaLiga, winning two league titles. Internationally, the team has reached the Champions League final twice and won two Europa League titles. Despite difficult moments, the board has always considered Simeone as a key piece of the sporting project. With this renewal, the coach aims to continue leaving his mark on the colchonero club.
11.11.2023 17:35 / Sport
“Simeone’s Doubt”
Diego Pablo Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, is preparing to face Villarreal next Sunday. The team will be without Memphis Depay and Thomas Lemar due to injuries, but will have Rodrigo de Paul back after a suspension.
Reinildo Mendava remains uncertain due to a long absence due to injury. Simeone commented that the match will be complicated and that the opponent has recently changed coaches. The only doubt for the coach is who will occupy the left interior position, between Saúl Ñíguez and Samuel Lino. Otherwise, the starting lineup will consist of Oblak, Witsel, Giménez, Hermoso, Riquelme, De Paul, Koke, Lino or Saúl, Griezmann, and Morata.
12.11.2023 23:31 / Sport
“Atlético Madrid stages a record comeback against Villarreal”
Atlético Madrid achieved a historic comeback against Villarreal in the 13th round of LaLiga EA Sports. After withstanding the pressure from the visiting team, Marcos Llorente broke through the opposing defense and provided a pass to Antoine Griezmann to score the winning goal.
Samuel Lino sealed the victory with another goal. With this win, Atlético Madrid sets a new record of 15 consecutive home victories in LaLiga EA Sports. Although the red and whites struggled initially, they managed to secure the win thanks to Marcos Llorente’s entrance in the second half. Villarreal, on the other hand, displayed a good level of play but couldn’t maintain their lead.
12.11.2023 12:07 / Sport
“The ‘Profe’ Ortega and Simeone
Atlético de Madrid made official the renewal of Diego Pablo Simeone’s contract until 2027. However, in the official photo of the agreement signing, the absence of the fitness coach, ‘Profe’ Ortega, was noticeable.
Apparently, Ortega negotiates his renewal individually since 2015, but he had always been included in the photo alongside ‘Cholo’. This time, Simeone posed with the coaching staff, but without Ortega. Everything indicates that the fitness coach will not continue at the club at the end of the season.
Media close to Atlético de Madrid affirm that the relationship between Ortega and Simeone has been broken for months. Additionally, it is mentioned that the international break during the Qatar World Cup and changes in the players’ diet have been turning points in this situation.
13.11.2023 11:29 / Sport
“The emotional goal by Witsel”
Axel Witsel scored his first goal with Atlético de Madrid in the match against Villarreal. The visiting team took the lead with a goal from Gerard Moreno, but the Belgian equalized just before halftime.
It turned out that this goal had a special meaning for Witsel, as he had lost his grandmother that same morning. After the match, Witsel stated in a press conference that he was happy about the goal but sad about his grandmother’s loss, and dedicated the goal to her. In addition, Atlético de Madrid achieved their fifteenth consecutive home victory in LaLiga, setting a new historical record. Witsel also emphasized the importance of the fans’ support.
13.11.2023 17:28 / Sport
“Griezmann equals goal-scoring record and renews contract”
Antoine Griezmann has equalled Adrián Escudero’s goal-scoring record and renewed his contract with Atlético de Madrid. The French forward scored a goal in the draw against Villarreal, reaching 169 goals with the club.
With this achievement, Griezmann is only three goals away from matching the legendary Luis Aragonés. His teammates praised his performance, highlighting his importance in the team’s collective play and his dedication in every match.
Coach Diego Pablo Simeone also praised the forward and expressed his confidence that Griezmann will leave a significant mark in the club’s history. Additionally, Griezmann expressed his satisfaction with Simeone’s contract renewal and hinted that he will continue to be a key player in the team.
14.11.2023 15:21 / Sport
“‘Griezmann and his pursuit of the Ballon d’Or’”
The coach of Atlético de Madrid, Diego Pablo Simeone, spoke about his close relationship with Antoine Griezmann and the importance of winning titles for the Frenchman to have a chance at the Ballon d’Or.
Simeone also mentioned his contract renewal with the club until 2027 and his desire to continue building the project. He also highlighted the team’s good form in LaLiga and their goal of going beyond third place.
The Argentine coach also discussed the team’s style of play and recalled that they played well when they won LaLiga two years ago. Simeone stated that winning the Champions League is not an obsession, but rather a dream. He also referred to the conversation he had with Álvaro Morata, praising his maturity and leadership. Finally, the coach praised Griezmann and emphasized the importance of his return to Atlético.
14.11.2023 10:34 / Sport
“‘Cholo’ talks about Joao Félix during his time at Atlético de Madrid”
In an interview, Diego Pablo ‘Cholo’ Simeone talked about Joao Félix’s time at Atlético de Madrid. The Argentine coach mentioned that when you don’t understand the idiosyncrasy of where you are, it is difficult to coexist.
He stated that Joao did what he could and now he looks better, more active in attack. Simeone expressed that if Joao does well, Atlético will be happy because it will be better for the club.
It is also mentioned that Joao Félix’s loan at FC Barcelona is scheduled until June 2024 and that the Blaugrana club would be interested in his permanent signing. However, there is still time to decide his future due to the economic situation of the Catalan club.
14.11.2023 13:40 / Sport
“Cerezo confirms negotiations of Atlético de Madrid for Mateu Alemany”
The president of Atlético de Madrid, Enrique Cerezo, has confirmed that the club is in negotiations to sign Mateu Alemany, former director of football at Barça. Cerezo also spoke about the pressure in football and expressed his understanding towards Xavi, who has lived with that pressure his whole life.
He also mentioned the team’s chances in La Liga and the importance of not making mistakes. Regarding the Champions League, he lamented that the team hasn’t won it despite playing at the same level as their rivals.
He also highlighted the renewal of Diego Pablo Simeone as coach and praised his work and continuity at the club. Cerezo defended Simeone’s salary and stated that the coach deserves it for the titles he has won. As for the club’s objectives, he said they dream of achieving the maximum but reality can change those dreams.
15.11.2023 11:05 / Sport
“Atlético signs Óscar Mayo, a heavyweight from LaLiga”
Atlético de Madrid has announced the signing of Óscar Mayo as director of Business and Operations, Marketing, Sponsorships, International and Leisure City. Mayo, currently the CEO of LaLiga, has been instrumental in the growth of the organization, increasing sponsorship revenues and joint venture agreements.
With this hiring, Atlético aims to pursue an internationalization strategy and diversify its business to compete with Real Madrid and Barcelona on a global scale. Additionally, Mayo has led LaLiga Impulso, which has allowed clubs to receive an injection of nearly 2 billion euros. This addition will also allow Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, vice president of LaLiga, to balance his responsibilities in other important positions at UEFA and ECA.
16.11.2023 00:48 / Sport
“Cerezo talks about Joao Félix’s future”
The president of Atlético de Madrid, Enrique Cerezo, has spoken about Joao Félix’s future in an interview. Although Barcelona is interested in acquiring the player after his loan spell, the club’s financial situation complicates the move.
As of July 1st, Félix will return to Atlético de Madrid. Cerezo has commented that Félix will be one of the best players in Europe and wishes him luck at Barcelona, but he doesn’t know if he will return. If Barcelona doesn’t exercise their purchase option, Félix will have to go back to Atlético. Cerezo has also mentioned that he doesn’t know why Félix didn’t succeed at Atlético, but he sees that he is playing well at Barcelona.
16.11.2023 15:43 / Sport
“Simeone and Griezmann, as long as they want”
The president of Atlético de Madrid, Enrique Cerezo, stated in an interview that both Diego Pablo Simeone and Antoine Griezmann will stay at the club as long as they want. Cerezo also highlighted the team’s good moment and stated that they are the favorites to win La Liga.
He also talked about Simeone’s contract renewal and defended his salary, stating that he has earned it. Regarding Griezmann, the president assured that he will also finish his contract in 2027 and will stay at the club as long as he wants. Cerezo also mentioned the arrival of Óscar Mayo as executive general director and the construction of the new Ciudad Deportiva. Finally, he talked about the press and its relationship with other clubs like Real Madrid.
18.11.2023 11:42 / Sport
“The future of Atlético de Madrid in the Champions League is at risk”
Atlético de Madrid faces the task of adjusting its financial structure to comply with UEFA regulations and ensure its participation in the 2025/2026 Champions League.
According to information from El Economista, one-third of the clubs participating in the current Champions League would be in breach of UEFA’s cost control rule, as their spending on player wages exceeds 70% of the revenues obtained in the last fiscal year.
UEFA sets the limit for spending on player and coach salaries, transfers, and agent fees for the 2025-2026 season at 70% of the club’s revenues. To comply with these regulations, Atlético must reduce its expenses to €301 million for the next season and €264 million for the 2025-2026 season, assuming revenues remain constant.
18.11.2023 00:22 / Sport
“Atlético will not make signings in January”
After securing the renewal of Diego Pablo Simeone, Atlético Madrid has decided not to make any signings in the winter transfer market of LaLiga EA Sports, unless there is an emergency. The team relies on its young players for rotation under Cholo.
Despite the departures of Carrasco and Kondogbia in the summer, it has not been necessary to bring in new names in the midfield and left-back positions. Riquelme and Lino have performed well on the left flank, adapting to the role demanded by Simeone.
In midfield, the emergence of Pablo Barrios has been crucial for rotation with Koke. The signings of Hojbjerg or Guido Rodríguez will be postponed until the next summer market. For now, the team is reinforcing itself with the return of Memphis and Reinildo.
19.11.2023 10:41 / Sport
“The tempting offer from the Premier League that tempts Griezmann”
Antoine Griezmann, player of Atlético de Madrid, has never hidden his desire to seek new experiences outside of Spain. Until now, Arabia and the United States were the most mentioned destinations for the Frenchman.
However, Manchester United has changed the landscape by showing interest in signing the forward as part of their recovery process. According to reports, the English club has sent emissaries to Madrid to establish contact with Griezmann and his inner circle.
The offer they plan to present is an annual salary of 21 million euros, three times more than what he currently earns at Atlético and more than what he earned at Barcelona.
This offer could completely change Griezmann’s future, who was recently assured by Atlético’s president, Enrique Cerezo, that he will stay at the club ‘as long as he wants’. Now it remains to be seen if Manchester United’s exorbitant offer accelerates the Frenchman’s departure or if he decides to once again show his love for Atlético, despite the figures coming from England.
21.11.2023 18:30 / Sport
“Griezmann and his possible destination in the Premier League”
The future of Antoine Griezmann with Atlético de Madrid is uncertain due to the interest of several Premier League clubs. Although it was expected that he would renew his contract, doubts have arisen. The 25 million euro release clause makes him a bargain for interested teams.
Despite expressing his desire to play in other leagues, Griezmann has played his entire career in Spain. Chelsea and Manchester United are keeping an eye on his situation and would be willing to triple his salary. However, the key will be to convince Griezmann to stay at a club where he feels loved by the fans. The final decision is in the player’s hands.
23.11.2023 06:30 / Sport
“Atlético avoids the deadliest FIFA Virus”
Atlético de Madrid has been lucky in the latest international break, as none of its players returned injured. Although Rodrigo de Paul suffered a muscular injury in the previous break, this time all the internationals came back in good condition.
However, there is now concern about the physical fatigue of some players, such as Antoine Griezmann, who played every minute with France despite already being qualified. There is also concern about Riquelme, who returned with discomfort from the Spanish national team. Additionally, it remains to be seen in what condition the South American players, such as Rodrigo de Paul and Nahuel Molina, will arrive. Compared to other teams, Atlético has been one of the least affected by the FIFA Virus.
24.11.2023 21:00 / Sport
“Atlético boasts attack against Muriqi-less Mallorca”
Atlético de Madrid is proud of its powerful attack led by Álvaro Morata and Antoine Griezmann, who have scored 24 goals between them this season. This Saturday, the team will face Javier Aguirre’s Mallorca, which is going through a difficult time in LaLiga EA Sports and will be without Vedat Muriqi.
Atlético is currently in fourth place in LaLiga, six points behind Girona, the leader, and is leading its group in the Champions League. Despite injuries to Thomas Lemar, Memphis Depay, and Reinildo Mandava, the team has maintained a good performance.
On the other hand, Mallorca is close to the relegation zone, with only one victory in twelve matches and seven consecutive winless games. However, the team has defeated Atlético in three of their last four encounters. The match will be a challenge for Atlético before the important matches against Feyenoord and Barcelona.
24.11.2023 21:14 / Sport
“Memphis returns to the squad of Atlético de Madrid”
After almost two months of injury, Memphis Depay returns to training with Atlético de Madrid and will be in the squad for the next match against Mallorca. The Dutch forward has had bad luck with injuries this season, missing a total of 22 games.
Despite his poor performance, coach Simeone has shown confidence in him and hopes he can regain his form. However, the club is already looking for a possible replacement in case Memphis does not improve. One of the names being mentioned is Dusan Vlahovic, a Serbian forward from Juventus. Everything will depend on Memphis’ performance in the upcoming matches.
24.11.2023 13:24 / Sport
“Five matches to take the lead”
After the international break, LaLiga returns and Barcelona aims to improve their performance. With two victories in LaLiga and a defeat in the Champions League, the Catalan team’s goal is to not fail in the remaining five matches until Christmas in order to take the lead, currently held by the surprising Girona.
Barcelona’s schedule is challenging, with direct confrontations against Girona and Atlético Madrid, as well as two difficult away matches. On the other hand, Girona, the current league leader, will play three out of their five matches at home, while Real Madrid has a more manageable schedule and Atlético Madrid will play four matches at home. These are the matches for the top four teams before Christmas.
24.11.2023 18:29 / Sport
“Simeone understands Scaloni when he says he needs to think”
Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, expressed his understanding towards Lionel Scaloni, the Argentine national team coach, when he stated that he needed time to think about the future of the national team.
Simeone affirmed that he understands and values Scaloni’s words, as he himself has gone through similar moments in his career. The Argentine coach recalled a phrase he uttered after the defeat in the 2016 Champions League final, where he also mentioned the importance of reflection. Simeone emphasized the need to have all possible energies to lead a national team and showed his support for Scaloni in his search for a suitable coach.
24.11.2023 17:50 / Sport
“Atlético Madrid shows interest in Guirassy”
The striker from Stuttgart, Serhou Guirassy, is having a fantastic start to the season with 16 goals in 10 matches. Several top European clubs are interested in signing him, and Atlético Madrid has joined the race.
Diego Pablo Simeone is interested in adding another forward to the team, especially if Memphis Depay doesn’t return at the same level after his injury. Griezmann and Morata are the stars of Atlético, but they lack rotation in their position.
Guirassy has a release clause of 20 million euros, making him an affordable option. Newcastle and Tottenham have also shown interest, but now Atlético has entered the competition. Saudi Arabia was also linked to Guirassy’s future, but he ruled out a move to the Arab market in January.
24.11.2023 09:37 / Sport
“Reopening of dispute over expropriation of Metropolitano land”
The Superior Court of Justice of Madrid has ordered the reopening of the case regarding the compensation given by the City Council to the owners of the land where the Civitas Metropolitano stadium stands.
The judges have annulled a previous ruling and ordered a reassessment of the arguments presented. The legal battle began in 2019 but was dismissed last year. The claimants argue that they received compensation for the expropriation under the premise that the land would be used for the construction of a public-use stadium, La Peineta.
However, the stadium and its adjacent land were transferred to Atlético de Madrid for the construction of their new stadium. The claimants argue that the stipulated deadline for the land to be transferred to private ownership was not met and request a recalculation of the compensation. The court considers that the reasons for dismissing the claim are not solid.
25.11.2023 23:14 / Sport
“Griezmann scores with a header and breaks Mallorca’s defense”
Atlético de Madrid defeated Mallorca 1-0 in matchday 14 of LaLiga EA Sports 2023/2024. Despite Mallorca’s solid defense, Antoine Griezmann managed to break the deadlock with a header. Atlético dominated the game and had several goal-scoring opportunities, but only Morata managed to have a shot on target in the second half.
Simeone’s substitutions, De Paul and Riquelme, didn’t have enough time to make an impact on the goal. It was Mario Hermoso who crossed the ball into the box and Griezmann, with a subtle movement of his head, scored the only goal of the match.
Mallorca tried to react, but Ndiaye missed a clear chance. Atlético held on to the narrow lead and Memphis Depay made his return from injury to play a few minutes. Additionally, Koke celebrated his 600th match with a victory.
26.11.2023 22:11 / Sport
“Koke, captain and legend of Atlético de Madrid”
Jorge ‘Koke’ Resurrección, captain and historic player of Atlético de Madrid, extended his legend in the match against Mallorca by reaching 600 games with the club. Since his debut at the age of 17, Koke has defended the colors of ‘Atleti’ for over 14 years.
In the match, the fans applauded the captain and the Metropolitano chanted his name. After the victory, Koke expressed his pride in reaching this milestone and his desire to keep playing. The player received a gold plaque in recognition of his 600 games. However, his contract renewal is still uncertain as it expires in June 2024. At 31 years old, Koke continues to make history in his beloved club.
28.11.2023 23:17 / Sport
“Atlético qualifies for the round of 16 with a convincing victory”
Atlético de Madrid secured their spot in the Champions League round of 16 with a 1-3 victory over Feyenoord. The colchonero team endured the opponent’s strong start and defeated them with two own goals and a fantastic goal by Mario Hermoso.
This win ended a six-match winless streak in the tournament and puts Atlético at the top of their group. However, they still need to solidify their position in the final match against Lazio. The game was filled with exciting moments, including a remarkable save by goalkeeper Biljow and a missed opportunity by Morata. Atlético controlled the match and had more scoring chances, but Feyenoord managed to score a goal before Santiago Giménez scored an own goal. The round of 16 awaits Atlético.
29.11.2023 20:12 / Sport
“Barrios ruled out against Barça due to meniscal tear”
Pablo Barrios, midfielder for Atlético Madrid, will not be available for the match against Barcelona due to a meniscal tear in his right knee. The player experienced discomfort during the game against Feyenoord and medical tests confirmed the injury.
The definitive treatment and estimated recovery time have yet to be determined. Barrios, 20 years old, is a regular option in Diego Simeone’s starting lineup and has played 12 matches this season, scoring two goals and providing two assists. He joins Atlético’s list of injured players, which includes Thomas Lemar, sidelined until 2024 with an Achilles tendon rupture.
29.11.2023 08:46 / Sport
“Atlético celebrates their qualification and the 35 million euros”
Atlético de Madrid achieved an important victory in Rotterdam that not only secured their place in the Champions League round of 16, but also an economic income of 35.5 million euros. After last year’s failure, in which they were eliminated from the competition, this qualification was vital for the club.
Before the match, Atlético had already secured 14.8 million for participating in the group stage, in addition to bonuses for victories and draws. Furthermore, qualifying for the round of 16 represents an additional prize of 9.6 million. The own goal by Geertruida and Mario Hermoso’s goal ensured the victory and Atlético’s progression to the next phase. If they continue advancing in the competition, they could receive even more lucrative prizes.
30.11.2023 21:32 / Sport
“Griezmann criticizes Joao Félix”
Antoine Griezmann has spoken about Joao Félix’s performance at Atlético de Madrid and his departure from the team. The French forward mentioned that Diego Simeone’s personality clashed with the Portuguese player’s understanding of football.
Griezmann also emphasized the importance of consistency in performance and suggested that Joao Félix may have become tired. Additionally, the player expressed his excitement about winning the league and his confidence in Atlético to face Barcelona. Lastly, Griezmann stated that he wants to finish his career at Atlético de Madrid and has the desire to play in the Major League Soccer before retiring.
30.11.2023 18:33 / Sport
“Oblak
Jan Oblak, goalkeeper of Atlético de Madrid, stated that LaLiga is not easier now that Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are no longer in it. According to Oblak, teams have evolved in their playing styles, including Atlético Madrid under Diego Pablo Simeone.
The Slovenian goalkeeper highlighted that LaLiga is more balanced and competitive than before, with all teams being very good and every match being very difficult. He also talked about his former teammate Joao Félix, whom he considers a player of great quality. Oblak expressed his satisfaction with Simeone’s contract renewal and the tactical evolution of Atlético Madrid. Lastly, he reflected on the rule changes for goalkeepers in penalty kicks.
30.11.2023 12:26 / Sport
“Reasons why the Atlético’s ‘MVP’ considered quitting football”
Rodrigo Riquelme, player of Atlético de Madrid, received the MVP award in the match against Feyenoord and his reaction went viral. Despite his current success, Riquelme revealed that he considered quitting football when he was a youth player due to bad experiences.
However, he received a message from the Atlético delegate to join the first team for preseason, which changed his perspective. Since then, he has been working with a psychologist and feels like a different player.
Last season, at Girona, he showed his potential and caught the interest of Manchester City. Currently, he has had a remarkable performance in LaLiga and the Champions League, even being called up for the national team. Coach Simeone praised his performance and both players are competing for a spot in the starting eleven against Barcelona.
30.11.2023 13:31 / Sport
“Disabling the Morata-Griezmann duo, the challenge of Barça-Atlético”
Coach Xavi Hernández faces the challenge of neutralizing the dangerous duo formed by Álvaro Morata and Antoine Griezmann in the upcoming match between FC Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid. Both players, who were rejected by Barça and Real Madrid, have been instrumental in Atlético’s success this season.
They have scored 16 goals and distributed assists optimally. Atlético has turned their stadium into a fortress, but has shown some weaknesses in their away matches. Barça needs to earn points to catch up with the league leaders, so it will be crucial to find a way to disable this lethal duo.
30.11.2023 13:14 / Sport
“Atlético falters away from home”
Atlético de Madrid has struggled this season when playing away from home. While they have achieved a perfect winning streak at home, they have had less success on the road. In the match against Barcelona, which is crucial for closing in on the top spot, the colchoneros need a victory to avoid falling behind.
However, the precedents are not favorable, as Atlético has not won at Barcelona’s stadium in the last 23 matches, with eight draws and 15 defeats. The last victory was in 2006. Although they defeated Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup, that match was played in Saudi Arabia. Atlético hopes to break this negative streak and achieve a positive result at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys de Montjuïc.
