The Metropolitano's new powerhouse: Baena signs for Atlético

Two days have passed since the summer transfer window opened last Tuesday, and Atlético de Madrid has now added its second player. The red-and-white club announced yesterday the arrival of Italian Ruggeri as a reinforcement for the left-back position, and this Wednesday they made official the most anticipated signing, that of Álex Baena .

After weeks of negotiations between Villarreal and Atlético Madrid, which frustrated Atlético's debut in the Club World Cup, resulting in Simeone's team being eliminated from the competition at the first sign of injury, both parties finally reached an agreement for a sum close to 50 million euros , 45 million fixed and five million in variables, for the transfer of the Almería native, who signs a five-year contract.

Starting next season, the Metropolitano will enjoy one of the best midfielders in Spanish football. An imaginative player like few others, he boasts being the top chance creator in Europe's top five leagues this season with 93 chances, a figure only two names of the caliber of Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes come close to, with 91. His ability to link up, think, and execute the best pass in every action make him the perfect partner for any attacker. All this without compromising the defensive effort so essential in the eyes of his new coach.

Born in Roquetas de Mar, Almería, and trained in Villarreal's youth system, Baena made the leap to the first team in 2020, in a historic season for the club that ended with the Europa League title. Seeking to gain playing time and experience, he spent a year with Girona, where he played a key role in their promotion to the First Division.

Upon returning to La Cerámica, his unstoppable progress led him to establish himself as an undisputed starter and emerge as one of the squad's most distinctive players. In his three years as a Yellows player following his return, he racked up 24 goals and 30 assists, figures that have led him to lead La Liga in assists for the past two seasons. At 23, he makes the breakthrough in his career with Atlético de Madrid. A brilliant career to date, as his trophy cabinet demonstrates, boasting not only the aforementioned Europa League, but also a European Championship (with Spain, where he has earned 10 caps and scored two goals) and a gold medal at the Paris Olympic Games.