Simeone names Atlético squad without Julián Álvarez and Romero

Diego Pablo Simeone has named his first squad for Atlético Madrid's 2026/27 campaign ahead of Wednesday's 19 August opener against Málaga at the Metropolitano. The list contains several notable absences that the manager had already flagged.

The most striking is Julián Álvarez, who has been in the spotlight all summer over his desire to move to Barcelona. According to Mundo Deportivo, the rojiblanco club held firm in rejecting any departure for the Argentine forward. Simeone explained his exclusion by saying he was not in optimal competitive condition: he arrived late to preseason after competing in the 2026 World Cup final.

Injury absences and market opportunities

Cristian 'Cuti' Romero finds himself in a similar situation and is also absent from the squad for the same reasons. Alexander Sorloth misses out due to a muscle injury that will keep him sidelined for the opening matches.

Simeone has left Obed Vargas and Thomas Lemar out for technical reasons, with both men heading for the exit. The Mexican midfielder is suffering from overcrowding in midfield and is seeking minutes elsewhere, while the Frenchman enters the final year of his contract.

New signings make their bow

The other summer signings are included: Morten Hjulmand, Kang-In Lee and Alejandro Grimaldo. Academy product Arnau Ortiz has also made the cut after impressing during preseason. The squad includes numerous young talents who kept things running during the World Cup absences.