Atlético de Madrid's squad was one of the oldest in Europe last season, so the club made a decision. The goal was to rejuvenate the team by combining young talent with already proven players. During the last transfer window, players like Gallagher and Julián Alvarez, 24-year-old but proven footballers, joined the team.
The club's intention remains the same, and it explores all markets in search of young prospects. During this winter market, Atlético de Madrid has acquired an Ecuadorian footballer who had caught the attention of Europe's giants.
Atlético de Madrid, a bet on the future
Allen Obando, 18 years old, arrives at Atlético de Madrid as one of the most promising talents in Ecuadorian football. Despite being young, his impact at Barcelona Sporting Club, one of Ecuador's most important teams, has been remarkable. In the Ecuadorian Serie A, Obando has scored three goals and provided one assist in the last 14 matches, standing out for his finishing ability and technical skills.
Atlético de Madrid hasn't hesitated to secure his signing, seeing Obando as a key piece for its future. Although his immediate destination will be Atlético San Luis, one of the red-and-white team's franchised clubs, the forward has a promising future at the club. In fact, Obando has already been an international with the Ecuadorian national team in lower categories and has two matches with the senior team.
A signing that distances Barça
Allen Obando's signing by Atlético de Madrid has been a direct blow to FC Barcelona, which had the young Ecuadorian forward as one of its top priorities. Barça's sports management had been following the player for months, seeing him as a reinforcement for the future, especially to strengthen its attack. However, Atlético got ahead in the operation and managed to close the deal before Barcelona could make a concrete move.
Joan Laporta and his team haven't only lost Obando but have also seen Atlético take another great South American talent, adding a gem to its youth academy. This move highlights the competition among Europe's top teams and reflects how Atlético is increasingly present in the market for young prospects.