Almada Joins Simeone’s Project

Argentinian international Thiago Almada will become a new player for Atlético Madrid after a transfer agreement was finalized with Brazilian side Botafogo, the Spanish club announced on Tuesday. The attacking midfielder, who played last season with Olympique Lyon, will travel to Madrid in the coming days to undergo his medicals and sign a contract with the Colchoneros until 2030.

Almada, a World Cup champion with Argentina in Qatar 2022, will reinforce the offensive midfield of Diego Pablo Simeone’s team, which already includes three other World Cup winners: Julián Álvarez, Nahuel Molina, and Rodrigo De Paul, the latter currently linked with a potential move to Inter Miami.

Atlético Matches River Plate in World Cup Winners

With Almada’s arrival, Atlético Madrid now matches River Plate as the club with the most 2022 World Cup winners in its squad. The Argentine side, now managed by Marcelo Gallardo, features Franco Armani, Germán Pezzella, Marcos Acuña, and Gonzalo Montiel.

The 24-year-old Almada, born in Ciudadela, Buenos Aires Province, has enjoyed a steady rise in his career. He developed at Vélez Sarsfield, moved to Atlanta United in MLS, then joined Botafogo—where he won the Brazilian Serie A and the 2024 Copa Libertadores—and most recently played for Olympique Lyon, who were unable to retain him due to financial difficulties.

In the continental final, held at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental against Atlético Mineiro, Almada stood out as one of the key players, boosting his international reputation and attracting interest from top European clubs.

Atlético Madrid sees Almada’s signing as part of its strategy to inject youth and South American talent into the squad, maintaining its competitive identity while betting on high-potential players capable of making a difference both now and in the future.