From the back four to the 5-3-2: the tactical map of Atlético

Atlético de Madrid expands its defensive flexibility with the additions of Cuti Romero and Alejandro Grimaldo in this summer transfer window, both requested by Diego Pablo Simeone to elevate the defensive rotation's quality.

These signings provide Diego Pablo Simeone with the ability to switch systems and tactical profiles without losing strength or ball distribution, enabling the team to alternate between a physical four-back line or a three-center-back defense with long full-backs based on the game's demands.

Versatility in the four-back defense: profiles for Atlético de Madrid's backline

With the squad restructure, Atlético de Madrid now boasts four specialists for the central axis: Romero, Marc Pubill, David Hancko, and Robin Le Normand. On the right flank, Simeone relies on Marcos Llorente's power and Pubill's solidity, while the left side is covered by Grimaldo's associative style and Hancko's firmness. Two more defensive-minded profiles and two more offensive-minded ones.

This lineup of defenders allows for full-backs with long-range capabilities like Grimaldo and Llorente when dominating in the opponent's half is crucial, or relying on Pubill and Hancko to secure the sides against skillful wingers. Hancko's ability to perform as a left center-back or full-back caters to various tactical scenarios in LaLiga and the Champions League. The team has the resources to regain its defensive solidity from the best era of Diego Pablo Simeone.

The system of three center-backs and wing-backs with Cuti Romero as the centerpiece

The three-center-back formation solidifies with a trio composed of Romero, Pubill, and Hancko or Le Normand. In this setup, Grimaldo takes on the role of the left wing-back where he excelled at Bayer Leverkusen, while the right flank is for the attacking depth of Llorente or Giuliano Simeone.

Romero's presence in the heart of defense ensures jumping ability in pressing situations and correction at the back, allowing the team to advance without being exposed to long balls. This squad allows the team to smoothly transition from a 4-4-2 to a 5-3-2 during gameplay. It will also depend on the roles of players like Alex Baena and Kang-in Lee, who might act as creative midfielders to connect with Lookman and Julián Álvarez in the attack.

Atlético de Madrid will finalize the registration of Romero and Grimaldo in LaLiga before August 15, 2026. Simeone will test different tactical setups in the final training sessions before defining the starting eleven for the national championship.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, De la línea de cuatro al 5-3-2: el mapa táctico del Atlético