Two men in a soccer stadium, one wearing a pink jersey and the other wearing a black coat, with an Atlético de Madrid poster in the background.

Leo Messi 'Steals' a Signing from Simeone: He Leaves on Loan from Atlético de Madrid

The Argentine will welcome an Atlético player.

The young Ecuadorian forward Allen Obando, just 18 years old, embarks on a new challenge in his professional career. After being signed by Atlético de Madrid, the "colchonero" club has decided to loan him to Inter Miami CF of Major League Soccer (MLS). This loan aims to guarantee playing time and continuity for a player with great potential, while the Madrid club closely monitors his development.

A Talent in Growth

Born in Ecuador, Obando was trained in the youth ranks of Barcelona SC, where he quickly stood out for his goal-scoring ability and maturity on the field. His breakthrough in the first team allowed him to play 23 matches and score four goals before turning 18 years old. His talent earned him the interest of several European clubs, but it was Atlético de Madrid that bet on his potential.

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The "colchonero" club completed his signing in February 2025 for a few million, making it one of the most significant sales in the history of Barcelona SC. The agreement included variables and a percentage of future resale, ensuring long-term benefits for the Ecuadorian club. Additionally, Obando has been an international with Ecuador's youth teams and has received drafts for the senior national team.

The Reason for His Loan

Although Atlético de Madrid had the option to integrate him into their squad or send him to their reserve team, the "rojiblanco" club opted for a loan to Inter Miami. The team, with a strong sports project, is under the guidance of figures like Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, and will offer him an ideal platform for his growth.

The Major League Soccer has become an attractive destination for young South American talents, and Inter Miami is leveraging its influence to attract promising footballers. The idea is for Obando to gain experience in a physical and dynamic soccer, adapting to a demanding league before returning to Europe with more playing time under his belt.

An Interesting Addition for Inter Miami

Inter Miami, which has made several additions to strengthen its squad, adds with Obando a forward with mobility, finishing ability, and aerial play. Additionally, his versatility allows him to play as a center forward or winger, which will give him options within Javier Mascherano's scheme. Obando joins other young signings like Tadeo Allende, showing the team's strategy of mixing experienced figures with great promises that can consolidate in the future.

Atlético de Madrid continues to bet on loans as a growth tool for its young talents. Depending on his performance in the MLS, Obando could return to the "colchonero" club in 2026 to join the first team or be loaned again to a European league. The ultimate goal is that, after this experience in the MLS, Obando returns more mature and with the necessary experience to compete at the highest level throughout Europe.