Key Atletico Madrid players – Alex Baena
A surprise star for Spain at the World Cup this summer.
He is the first player to win the World Cup, European Championship and the Olympics. Has already bettered last season’s La Liga goal tally of two, netting three times in Atletico’s first four league matches.
He was asked by a reporter if he had “dressed up as Julian Alvarez” after scoring a superb free-kick vs Malaga – “No, I dressed up as Alex Baena” was his blunt response.
Atletico Madrid squad summary
Former Crystal Palace striker Alexander Sorloth is an injury doubt and winger Arnau Ortiz is suspended.
After a turbulent summer being linked to a move away from Simeone’s side, Julian Alvarez has made two substitute appearances.
Alvarez was publicly courted by Barcelona and was keen on the move, but Atletico refused to sell.
Simeone said he hopes the saga will be a “learning experience” for the ex-Manchester City man.
