From Panic Buys to Smart Business: Atlético Madrid's Transfer Turnaround

For much of the past 15 years, Atletico Madrid has carved a distinct identity under the oversight of Diego Simeone—intense, structured, and fiercely competitive.

In Simeone’s 14 years at the club, he has brought success back to the red and white half of Madrid. Two of the Europa League and Super Cup, a solitary Copa Del Rey in 2012/13, and most importantly, two La Liga titles in 2013/14 and 2020/21—each time popping up to end the dominance of Spanish superpowers Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.

But it is known that in some of the past few transfer windows, Atletico have been hampered by their signings in the transfer market.

With the likes of Matt Doherty, Axel Witsel, and Daniel Wass all being signed in the past five years, it’s fair to question what exactly Atlético Madrid’s transfer strategy was trying to achieve.

But now, there’s a sense that Atlético Madrid’s transfer strategy is finally shifting toward a more coherent, forward-looking approach, one that prioritises experienced professionals operating at the peak of their powers, rather than those nearing the end of their careers. At the same time, they’re reinforcing the squad with younger talents boasting significant upside—players who can contribute now, but may also grow into central figures for years to come.

Experience to Evolution

When Doherty and Wass were both signed, alarm bells should have been ringing in the heads of Athletic supporters. Doherty was a fine player, named Wolves player of the decade by the Guardian.

A new challenge for me I’m very happy and excited to represent @Atleti it will be an honour to wear number 12 for this great club. Time to focus and get to work. Thank you for the incredible welcome. pic.twitter.com/eIebSbUo7B

— Matt Doherty (@mattdoherty20) February 1, 2023

The Irishman had just come off a semi-successful spell at Tottenham Hotspur, where he played 71 times across three seasons.

Similarly, with Wass, the Dane had experience. Playing 124 times over seven seasons with Celta Vigo and Valencia, Wass was regarded as a successful La Liga midfielder.

The issue with both signings was their age. Doherty was 31 and Wass was 32. Both players would only play one season for the club each, playing a combined 3 games.

Witsel is a different story.

The Belgian midfielder only just departed Atlético after making over 100 appearances across three seasons—a testament to his reliability. But he was still 33 when he arrived.

Witsel, once regarded as European midfield royalty, was deployed as a makeshift centre-back: functional, yes, but far from transformative.

These signings were aimed at plugging gaps, not laying foundations.

Yet over the past two years, the tide has slowly started to turn. Simeone and the Atlético board have begun to move away from experience-first signings and toward players with potential—those entering, or already in, the peak years of their careers.

The New Wave

Julian Alvarez, Conor Gallagher, Alexander Sorloth, Thiago Almada—the names signal more than just talent. They represent the beginning of a new era at Atletico Madrid.

Gallagher’s arrival is particularly symbolic. In a midfield that has often relied on veteran presence and grit, the Chelsea academy product offers dynamism, pressing intensity, and an eye for goal.

He is a modern midfielder - created in Cobham, but tailored for Simeone.

Alvarez and Sorloth are completely different. Both are strikers who complement Antoine Griezmann, linking play with intelligence and offering a genuine goal threat. Between them, they scored 54 goals last season.

30 minutes, 4 goals. Sørloth has turned into prime Ronaldo today for no reason 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/kgghyihXcc

— Footy Humour (@FootyHumour) May 10, 2025

Even the signing of Almada, confirmed just 10 days ago, reflects Atlético’s growing strategic clarity. The 24-year-old Argentine—having already had spells at Botafogo, Atlanta United, and Lyon—arrives with flair, vision, and creativity.

Standing at just 5ft 7, he does not let his height impact him, but rather drive him. Quick with the ball at his feet, be prepared to see ‘El Guayo’ twisting and turning defenders next season.

These players are not patch jobs of previous windows; they are pillars that will remain central to Atlético Madrid’s identity for seasons to come.

Can They Compete?

The question that should remain on everybody’s minds is, does Atletico Madrid have what it takes to compete against Real Madrid and Barcelona?

At this moment in time, the answer is likely no.

The two Spanish giants have squads forged in the crucible of relentless ambition and youthful brilliance.

Madrid has the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and so many more.

On the flip side, Barcelona has youth and talent to match Madrid. The likes of Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Pau Cubarsi, and Gavi match both the age and talent of Madrid’s side.

Atletico are just not quite there yet.

That is not to say that they will not be there, just not now. Adding the right pieces will only enhance what Simeone has already crafted. But going toe-to-toe with two of the world’s biggest clubs will always be a tough ask. For Atletico, the goal is clear: to close the gap and compete not just with grit, but with growing quality and ambition.