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Diego Simeone has been managing Atletico Madrid for so long that some of his current players weren’t born when he took the job. And yet, heading into the 2026-27 La Liga season, even El Cholo finds himself back in familiar territory: asking for time.
Speaking to the media on September 15, 2026, ahead of Atletico’s home fixture against Osasuna, Simeone described his squad as being “in construction.” Seven departures. Five new signings. A handful of academy graduates suddenly thrust into senior roles. That’s not a roster tweak. That’s a renovation.
The numbers tell a complicated story
Atletico sit fifth in La Liga after five matches. Three wins, one draw, one loss. Ten points.
The concern lives on the other side of the ball. Atletico have conceded eight goals in those five competitive matches. Atletico’s most recent result was a convincing 3-0 victory over Real Sociedad on September 13.
Simeone acknowledged the defensive inconsistency as an area that clearly needs work in his press conference.
Squad overhaul creates growing pains
Among the new arrivals is Jonathan David, who could start or come off the bench against Osasuna.
The Argentine coach addressed criticism from observers directly, not with combativeness but with a measured plea for understanding. He emphasized that the squad is going through a transitional period, one that requires supporters to stay engaged rather than turn skeptical after a handful of games.
Osasuna provides a test of progress
Simeone specifically called for a strong fan presence at the September 16 match against Osasuna, framing the contest as one where both teams share similar pressures and needs.
Simeone has earned the right to ask for patience through more than a decade of overachievement at a club that historically lived in the shadow of Real Madrid. He turned Atletico into a genuine European force, won La Liga, reached multiple Champions League finals, and did it all with smaller budgets than the continent’s elite.
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