Vargas: 'I identify with Atlético - my career had obstacles but I never stopped believing' - Atlético Madrid news
Atlético Madrid 04 Feb 2026 · LaLiga News Staff

Vargas: 'I identify with Atlético - my career had obstacles but I never stopped believing'

Young Mexican midfielder Obed Vargas opens up about his challenging journey to the top and his excitement at joining Diego Simeone's Atlético Madrid project.

The newest addition to Atlético Madrid’s squad has opened up about his career journey and how he feels right at home with the club’s never-say-die ethos.

‘Perfect fit’ with Atlético’s identity

Obed Vargas, the promising Mexican footballer who recently joined Los Colchoneros, has revealed in an interview with the club’s official media that his path to the pinnacle of world football hasn’t exactly been a walk in the park. The youngster spoke candidly about the obstacles he’s faced, drawing parallels between his personal journey and Atlético’s famous fighting spirit.

“I identify with Atlético: in my career I had many obstacles but never stopped believing,” Vargas explained, showing he’s already well-tuned to the club’s famous underdog mentality that has defined them under Diego Simeone’s reign.

Dream move to the Spanish capital

Vargas made no secret that joining Atlético Madrid represents a dream come true for him, particularly the opportunity to work under the guidance of El Cholo Simeone. The gaffer’s reputation for developing talent and instilling that famous Atlético grit seems to have been a major pull for the Mexican midfielder.

Star-struck by Griezmann

In a particularly touching moment during the interview, Vargas admitted to being somewhat in awe of sharing a dressing room with Antoine Griezmann, confessing: “I don’t think he knows what he means to me.”

The comment reveals the human side of football transfers that we sometimes forget - young players suddenly finding themselves training alongside their idols. For Vargas, the Frenchman clearly represents something special, and that admiration could well translate into a determination to impress on the pitch.

With his fighting spirit and clear appreciation for the club’s values, Atlético fans will be hoping Vargas can adapt quickly to life in the Spanish capital and make a proper impact in the famous red and white stripes.

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