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- Estadio Vicente Calderón to close its doors for good
After a summer of nostalgia-filled tours and programs, Estadio Vicente Calderón is set to close its doors once and for all on Sept. 30. Atlético Madrid’s former home opened in October 1966 and will host its last public visitors just shy of its 51st birthday.
The club has hosted tours and other events for fans this summer, highlighted by the opportunity for fans to take a penalty from the spot. AS note that an estimated 2,500 fans have taken such a shot, with many more expected to partake in the coming week.
(It is unclear what their conversion rate is at present.)
For those of you in the area, be sure to drop in and pay your last respects before it’s too late.
- Augusto set to return as fixture list thickens
An interesting read from The Sportsman details Augusto Fernández’s imminent return from injury after a few weeks away due to a hamstring injury. His return to training brings Atlético’s squad to full strength as it faces down a tight fixture list that includes LaLiga, Champions League and Copa del Rey fixtures in the coming month. His veteran presence in midfield will be a welcome addition to a lively and youthful group.
- Filipe Luís talks depth and competition.
In an interview with Marca (translation via Sports Illustrated), left back Filipe Luís spoke about tight competition in the Atlético squad, noting that making the starting XI is no easy feat these days. Despite all the jockeying for playing time, he had nothing but positive comments about the team chemistry. It seems that everyone is thriving off the competition, while the depth it provides should hopefully make for sustained success this year.