Diego Simeone Tactics At Atlético Madrid 2025/2026: Caught Between Old Identity & New Ideas – Tactical Analysis

For over a decade, Atlético Madrid under Diego Simeone have been defined by resilience, compactness, and a tactical identity so sharp it became their trademark. 

Fierce pressing, ruthless transitions, and defensive solidity made Los Colchoneros a nightmare for opponents in Spain and Europe alike. 

But as the 2025/2026 La Liga season kicks off, Atlético Madrid find themselves stumbling at almost every hurdle.

Diego Simeones men have dropped points against Deportivo Alavés, Espanyol, Real Mallorca, Elche, and Celta Vigo. 

They look far from the disciplined unit that once thrived on suffocating opponents and striking with precision. 

The numbers reveal a worrying trend: possession without penetration, pressing with a lack of coordination, and a defence no longer impenetrable.

This isn’t just a poor run of form; it reflects deeper structural issues.

Atlético Madrid appear caught between their traditional counterattacking DNA and Simeone’s push toward a more possession-based style.

The result so far?

A team in transition that looks less like the ruthless teamwork of old, and more like a side unsure of its own identity.

This Atlético Madrid tactical analysis explains how Diego Simeone is still searching for his identity this season.

Atlético Madrid Build-Up & Ball Progression: The Broken Chain

Atlético Madrid, in the initial weeks of the 2025/2026 season, have demonstrated a tendency to control possession but have struggled to convert this dominance into meaningful attacking progression.

Under Diego Simeone, their build-up play this season shows a clear shift towards a more controlled, possession-based approach.

The central defenders and pivot players prioritise stability in the first phase, often moving the ball horizontally with minimal risk.

While this strategy ensures ball retention, it highlights a significant issue: advancing the play. 

In the build-up phase, Atlético Madrid set up in a 4-3-3 shape, with their full-backs positioned deep.