Simeone's Tactical Labyrinth: Is Baena Lost at Atlético?

Spain - Ekhbary News Agency

Simeone's Tactical Labyrinth: Is Baena Lost at Atlético?

The question echoes persistently through the corridors of the Metropolitano: «Is there a 'Baena case'?». What began as a strategic and promising signing, valued at around 40 million euros from Villarreal, has transformed into an enigma for Atlético Madrid. The 24-year-old Spanish international arrived in the capital with a reputation as a complete player: youth, technical quality, enviable set-piece striking, and a defensive capability that seemed to fit perfectly with Diego Simeone's demands for an attacking midfielder. Indeed, his previous performance endorsed him as the top chance creator in Europe's top five leagues the previous season, with 93 opportunities generated.

However, seven months after his incorporation, the reality is bleak. Baena has failed to find his place in the Rojiblanco scheme. He appears downcast, his football isn't flowing, and his sparkle has faded. The shadow of 'Cholo' Simeone, known for his obsession with reinventing players and molding their characteristics to his system, seems to have swallowed him in a tactical labyrinth from which the Almerian cannot escape. This situation has made his undisputed starting position increasingly remote, and attention is focused on his potential performance in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals against Betis, a match that could be crucial for his future.

It cannot be overlooked that a series of physical misfortunes have hampered his progress. Two muscular injuries and appendicitis have prevented the midfielder from enjoying the necessary stability to settle in. Nevertheless, a deeper analysis of his roadmap this season reveals a lack of clarity from the coaching staff on how to exploit his virtues. Since August, Baena has been used in no fewer than five different positions: second striker, central midfielder, attacking midfielder, left interior, and right interior. This versatility, which in theory should be an asset, has become a burden, preventing him from developing continuity and a deep understanding of a specific role.

When Baena occupies central positions, his integration into Atlético's play is slow; the Rojiblanco team's passing rhombus lacks the fluidity it exhibits with the Spanish national team or Villarreal. On the other hand, when he is moved to more advanced or wide positions, he seems to stick too close to the touchline, like a pure winger, which prevents him from unleashing his valued through-passes. In these circumstances, players like Barrios or Julián Álvarez take on the responsibility of building play in influential zones, leaving Baena in the background.

Furthermore, his profile does not fit that of a pure dribbler. In key duels against Valencia or Mallorca, his inability to beat an opponent in a one-on-one situation has been evident, a deficiency that generates frustration for the player and can lead to dangerous counter-attacks for Atlético when he loses possession. This lack of adaptation and performance has been reflected in a drastic reduction in his minutes during a streak of poor team results (one win in the last four matches across all competitions). With only 1,112 minutes in the 2025-26 season, and a meager record of two goals and one assist, it is undeniable that Simeone is not giving him the confidence a player of his caliber and cost should have.

The recent winter transfer market, with significant movements in the offices managed by Mateu Alemany, has opened new possibilities for Baena. The arrival of Lookman, a pure dribbler and goal-scorer from the left wing, could free him to occupy a more central attacking midfield position. Likewise, Sorloth's injury could force Simeone to modify his unyielding 4-4-2 to a 4-2-3-1 in upcoming matches, with Julián Álvarez as the main reference up front and the Andalusian playing behind him. These tactical changes, if consolidated, could offer him a breather and a chance for redemption.

However, the other side of the coin presents a bleaker scenario. If Lookman meets expectations and becomes the key player he promises, Baena could see his options further reduced, relegated to a more secondary or even marginal role. It is undeniable that, although a «Baena case» is not yet openly discussed critically in the media, the situation is on the verge of exploding. History seems to repeat itself: another talent who, instead of flourishing, shrinks under Diego Simeone's relentless model. Time will tell if the labyrinth has an exit for the Almerian midfielder.

Ekhbary News Agency