Atlético Madrid 2023-24: preseason plans, signings, and squad outlook

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Atlético Madrid is aiming for a full-fledged return in the 2023-2024 season, ready to contend for every prize. After a campaign where they corrected a rocky start by climbing back to a top-three finish, the rojiblancos are hungry to challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid again this year and push for major trophies both domestically and in Europe.

Under coach Diego Simeone, the team faces another European campaign with high expectations. The 2022-2023 season was a tough one, as they stumbled in the opening phase of the Champions League and finished bottom of their group, failing to reach the Europa League. That outright disappointment came with financial repercussions that will need to be absorbed and addressed as the new season begins.

Atlético de Madrid 2023 pre-season: when does it start, friendlies, signings, squad, travel and meeting places

Pre-season Atlético de Madrid 2023: when does it start?

Atlético de Madrid opened preparations for the 2023-2024 campaign on Friday, July 7, undergoing the usual medical tests before resuming training. The squad then moved to Los Ángeles de San Rafael, where the first training sessions kicked off on Monday, July 10, with the international players joining in.

During the initial session, the reunion between Simeone and Joao Félix underscored the potential paths ahead for the Portuguese forward. After the physical work, the coach arranged a ten-a-side match in which neither Félix nor Joao Félix participated, both players pursuing future options as the transfer market dynamics unfolded.

Pre-season Atlético de Madrid: trips and places of concentration

As is customary, Atlético de Madrid begins its pre-season at Los Ángeles de San Rafael, bringing the squad to Segovia for a week of preparation. Between the 17th and 23rd, they return to Madrid to complete the second week of training at Cerro del Espino before heading to South Korea for the next phase of preseason activity.

In this cycle, the club will skip their usual summer fixture against Numancia, a signature match that they typically schedule after the initial training block. Their first friendly is scheduled for July 27 against a squad of Korean stars, followed by a clash with Manchester City in Korea. From there, the team will travel to the United States to face Real Sociedad on August 3 and Sevilla on August 6, with early morning kickoffs in the hours around 3:00 and 4:00 a.m. local time.

The Athletic preseason will culminate with a return to Europe. After the United States tour, the squad will regroup for a short rest before preparing for the league opener against Granada, set for Monday, August 14 at 9:30 p.m. in Madrid’s Metropolitano stadium.

Pre-season Atlético de Madrid: friendlies

Pre-season Atlético de Madrid 2023: acquisitions and selection

Atlético de Madrid have announced four signings so far. Strength in depth on the defensive line has been the priority. Left-back Javi Galán arrives from Celta, followed by César Azpilicueta after leaving Chelsea, and Söyüncü who joined on a free transfer from Leicester. The young Uruguayan international Mouriño will take part in the pre-season while the club decides on his long-term role, with a potential loan move next season.

Goalkeeping duo: Oblak and Grbic

Defenders: Söyüncü, Javi Galán, Giménez, Azpilicueta, Lodi, Savic, Nahuel Molina, Mario Hermoso, Reinildo and Mouriño.

Midfielders: Riquelme, De Paul, Koke, Lemar, Marcos Llorente, Saul, Witsel, Carrasco, Pablo Barrios.

Forwards: Lino, Joao Félix, Griezmann, Depay, Correa, Morata, Camel.

There remain several pieces to be moved. Some players are expected to depart, and depending on exits and available funds, Atlético could pursue an additional midfielder and a forward to bolster the squad.

During this phase, the club will balance development with immediate needs to build a competitive group capable of competing across all fronts in the upcoming season.

— End of report —

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