Thiago Almada Officially Joins Atlético Madrid

Atlético Madrid have signed Argentine midfielder Thiago Almada. He is the third big signing for Atlético this summer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Thiago Almada has joined Atlético Madrid. This was announced on July 17, 2025, after many rumors. Almada came from French club Olympique Lyonnais, where he impressed during his loan spell, contributing two goals and five assists. The transfer fee is about €21 million. Almada is becoming a key player in European football.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Atlético Madrid want to improve their team. Last season, they had a tough La Liga campaign and finished third, which is a spot behind their expectations as they failed to be a real threat to eventual league winners Barcelona. Almada adds creativity to a struggling midfield. In the 2024/2025 season, he scored 8 goals and 12 assists in 33 Ligue 1 matches when he was loaned out by Botafogo in Brazil to OL in France. Almada’s arrival is seen as adding new energy to help Atlético compete closer to the top of the league.

WHAT NEXT FOR ATLÉTICO AND ALMADA?

Atlético Madrid and Almada now focus on pre-season training. Their first La Liga match is against Espanyol. Last year, Espanyol finished just two points ahead of the drop zone, and having lost their star-player, goalkeeper Joan Garcia to Barcelona, seem likely to have a tough season ahead. Almada may play in the opening match. Everyone is eager to see him in Spanish football and how he can help Atlético climb in the standings.