Atlético de Madrid has completed the signing of Allen Obando, a promising Ecuadorian forward who is only 18 years old. Coming from Barcelona of Guayaquil, the young striker is considered one of the greatest promises in South American soccer. With his signing, the red-and-white club seeks to strengthen its future and leverage his talent in the coming years.
Allen Obando, who recently played in the South American U-20 Championship with Ecuador, where he scored two goals, has attracted the interest of several European clubs. It was Atlético de Madrid that managed to get ahead of the competition and has designed a particular strategy for his adaptation to international soccer. He will first play in Miami and later move to Mexican soccer, an important step up in level.
The signing of Allen Obando has been managed through Atlético de San Luis, the Mexican affiliate club of the red-and-white entity. This maneuver has facilitated his gradual arrival in European soccer. As part of this strategy, the young forward will be loaned to Inter Miami for the 2025 season. The player had expressed his desire not to miss the opportunity to share a locker room with Leo Messi and Luis Suárez.
Miami as a Step Before Mexico
The experience in Major League Soccer (MLS) will help him gain experience and adapt to more competitive soccer before making the definitive leap to the Atlético de Madrid group. At the red-and-white club, they believe this boy could eventually wear the Atleti jersey. They want to see him grow in less demanding leagues, aiming to unlock his full potential and prepare him for the future.
Regarding the financial operation, the transfer cost is around 4 million euros. Additionally, Barcelona SC of Guayaquil has managed to retain a significant percentage of the player's rights, which could benefit the Ecuadorian club in a future sale. The great jewel of the shipyard team leaves the club after 23 matches.
A Red-and-White Future?
Allen Obando has already demonstrated his ability in professional soccer. At 17 years old, he debuted in the Copa Libertadores wearing the Barcelona SC jersey. He did so against São Paulo of Brazil, in that match, he played 59 minutes, leaving a good impression. Additionally, he has had the opportunity to debut with the senior national team of Ecuador in a friendly against Guatemala.
His enormous progression has been constant, and with 23 matches played and 4 goals scored at his home club, he is emerging as a forward with great potential. Not only was Atlético interested, but other clubs like FC Barcelona have gathered very interesting reports on the Ecuadorian player. However, it was the red-and-whites who managed to get ahead of everyone and secure the services of the young forward.
The club coached by Diego Pablo Simeone, always alert to emerging talents, has decided to bet on his development. If his loan to Inter Miami proves successful, it wouldn't be surprising to see him at the Metropolitano in the coming years.