Villarreal CF and Atlético de Madrid have reached an agreement for the transfer of the Almería-born midfielder
Villarreal CF and Atlético de Madrid have reached a transfer agreement for Álex Baena, who will join the Madrid-based side ahead of the 2025/26 season.
In doing so, the Almería-born footballer bids farewell to what has been his home for the past 13 years — a place where he developed as a player, won the UEFA Europa League, and established himself as a top-level footballer and full Spanish international.
Baena’s journey with Villarreal began in 2012 when he joined the club’s youth academy. After progressing through every stage from U12 level, he made the step up to the first team, where he quickly stood out as an exceptional talent. He made his debut in the 2019/20 season and was part of the historic squad that lifted the UEFA Europa League trophy the following year.
Since then, the midfielder from Roquetas de Mar has continued to grow into a key figure for Villarreal CF. In recent years, he has ranked among the top assist providers in Europe’s major leagues and earned a regular place in the Spanish national team, with whom he won both the European Championship and the Olympic Games in Paris last year.
This past season, he played a vital role in helping the Yellow Submarine qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
The club would like to thank him for his commitment, dedication and professionalism throughout his long and successful spell as a Groguet. Villarreal CF are also deeply grateful for the pride and passion with which he has defended the club’s colours. For all of this, the club wishes him the very best of luck in this new chapter of his professional career.
This will always be your home, Álex.
