Atlético de Madrid has regained its form with a streak of four consecutive victories in LaLiga, beating Real Sociedad (0-3), Osasuna (4-0), Real Madrid (2-1) and Alavés (1-2). With these results, Diego Simeone's team advances to second place, five points behind leader Barcelona. The revitalization is due to the performance of several key players, including Jonathan David, Giuliano Simeone, Álex Baena, Alejandro Grimaldo and the Argentine central defender 'Cuti' Romero.
Canadian striker Jonathan David, on loan from Juventus with a purchase option, has scored three goals and provided two assists in the last phase. His first goal came after coming off the bench against Real Sociedad, and since then he has started in the three most recent games, contributing with a goal and a decisive pass against Osasuna, another goal against Real Madrid and the assist for Grimaldo's first goal against Alavés. His arrival has been a decisive factor in the red and white offensive.
Alejandro Grimaldo, the Spanish full-back who joined from Bayer Leverkusen, has shown an outstanding offensive performance. He has scored three goals, two from penalties, and has given another in the last winning streak. Furthermore, his participation was crucial in the goal against Osasuna. Coach Simeone has highlighted the confidence and freedom that he has given to the player, allowing him to move through interior positions and thus generate play and confidence.
Giuliano Simeone, the left winger, has been fundamental in the victory of the Madrid derby. His intervention in the penalty that made it 1‑0 and his pass that made it 2‑0 against Real Madrid were decisive. He was also key in the 2-2 draw with Villarreal. The player has explained that he tries to “empty himself completely on the field”, seeking to contribute at every moment of the game.
Álex Baena, who had a difficult first season, has shown great improvement. In just nine games this season he has scored four goals and provided two assists, surpassing last season's numbers. He has scored in three of the team's six wins and was the author of the cross that led to Romero's goal against Alavés. Baena commented that the start of the season was “very good” and that the coach valued it positively.
Argentine center back 'Cuti' Romero has consolidated his position as defensive leader. Since his first start after the defeat against Liverpool, he has started every game, contributing with a winning header against Alavés. Simeone has praised his personality and hierarchy, highlighting that the club made a great effort to have him and that his presence is fundamental for the team.
With the current streak, Atlético maintains a solid position in the table, although it is still five points behind Barcelona. The next challenge will be to consolidate this form in the next matches and continue looking for the necessary advantage to close the season with a leadership position.