Raspadori joins Atleti squad for Real Sociedad clash as transfer saga continues
Italian forward remains in Simeone's plans despite Roma links, while Baena and Giménez return to bolster squad for crucial La Liga fixture in San Sebastián.
Cholo keeps his Italian forward in the mix despite ongoing transfer negotiations with Roma, as Atlético Madrid prepare for a must-win fixture in the Basque Country.
Squad situation
Giacomo Raspadori has made the cut for Atlético’s trip to San Sebastián this morning, continuing to train and travel with the squad while his future hangs in the balance. The former Napoli man remains part of the furniture at Atleti while the club negotiates with Roma over a potential departure.
Interestingly, Simeone doesn’t see the Italian showing any signs of a player desperate for the exit door, which explains his continued inclusion in the matchday squad. It’s a proper game of poker between the clubs right now, with neither wanting to show their hand first.
Key returns
The gaffer’s selection has been boosted by the return of two crucial players:
- Álex Baena - The former Villarreal man is set to slot straight back into the starting eleven after his absence in the final matches of 2025
- José María Giménez - The Uruguayan rock returns to the squad but will start on the bench as he builds back to full fitness
These returns couldn’t come at a better time for Simeone, with Baena’s creativity in attack and Giménez’s defensive solidity both vital components in the Atleti machine.
Missing pieces
It’s not all rosy for the Rojiblancos though, with two notable absentees for the trip north:
- Clément Lenglet and Nico Williams both picked up knocks in the final fixtures of last year and remain unavailable
To fill out the squad, Simeone has called up academy prospects Jano, Julio Díaz and Iker Luque, while Esquivel will serve as the third-choice goalkeeper.
Pressure’s on
This fixture has taken on even greater importance after Barcelona’s victory against Espanyol yesterday, which stretched the gap to a whopping 12 points. The boys from the capital simply must bring home the bacon from the Reale Arena if they’re to keep any title hopes alive.
With the transfer window now open, performances like this might determine whether Atleti look to strengthen further or focus on trimming the squad. Either way, it’s squeaky bum time for Simeone’s men as they head into the business end of the season.