Atletico Madrid fans are delighted with their summer business this year, and optimism is growing that Diego Simeone’s side can once again become a nightmarish opponent for any foe. On Thursday night, Los Rojiblancos presented their new signings to 30,000 fans at the Metropolitano, which received their new heroes in a raucous atmosphere.
Real Sociedad and Spain international Robin Le Normand was the first through the door, while Alexander Sorloth followed from Villarreal, La Liga’s second top-scorer with 23 goals last season.
🚨🏟️ Over 30,000 Atlético Madrid fans were present at the Metropolitano tonight for the presentation of the new signings. ❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/yKcC6D29Od
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) August 21, 2024
Perhaps the biggest shock was Julian Alvarez‘s move to Atletico, costing Los Rojiblancos €70m plus €25m in variables from Manchester City. It was a move that few thought was possible, and is Atletico’s biggest outlay since Joao Felix was signed five years ago.
🚨🏴 Conor Gallagher on IG: “Thank you for making me feel at home! AUPA ATLETI ❤️” pic.twitter.com/2HGbWgRite
— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) August 21, 2024
His exit to Chelsea allowed the arrival of Conor Gallagher, for a second time in Madrid, but this time he was able to pull on the shirt and greet his new fans. The England midfielder was met with a thunderous roar as he tested out his Spanish.
"Hello. I don't speak much Spanish. I'm very happy. Come on Atleti!"
A table for four for Conor Gallagher and #AtleticoMadrid's new signings, Robin Le Normand, Alexander Sorloth and Julian Alvarez. pic.twitter.com/ndREz3Yta2
— Football España (@footballespana_) August 22, 2024
Those deals have taken Atletico’s total spend to €183.5m this summer, their largest spend since 2019, when they put down €247m, but over half of that was down purely to Felix. Atletico are not yet done either, with another central defender expected to arrive. They are currently pursuing David Hancko of Feyenoord.
