€170M Spent, Still No Win! Atletico Held Again as Simeone Faces Growing Pressure

On August 24, Atletico Madrid failed to secure their first victory of the new La Liga season, drawing 1-1 at home against newly promoted Elche. After two rounds, Diego Simeone’s side has collected only a single point, a disastrous start considering their heavy summer investment.

In the opening round, Atletico suffered a shock 1-2 defeat away to Espanyol. Returning to the Wanda Metropolitano, they were expected to bounce back against Elche, but the outcome was once again disappointing.

The hosts struck first in the 8th minute when new signing David Hancko delivered a precise long ball for Alexander Sørloth, who finished coolly to make it 1-0. Just seven minutes later, Elche equalized through Mill after a swift counterattack.

Giuliano Simeone hit the post late in the first half, while Marcos Llorente wasted a golden chance after the break. In stoppage time, both Raspadori and Gallagher went down inside the box, but the referee waved play on. Diego Simeone protested furiously and was shown a yellow card.

What makes the situation worse is Atletico’s massive spending. Last summer, they spent €180 million without any silverware. This year, another €170 million went into signings such as Baena, Hancko, Almada, and Raspadori, yet the team’s performances remain underwhelming.

Now, at 55 years old, Diego Simeone is once again under heavy scrutiny. Unless Atletico turn things around quickly, his long reign in Madrid may soon come to an end.