Atlético Femenino move on from failed double bid

Atlético Femenino’s attempt to win the domestic double failed for a second straight season after a 2-1 loss to Real Sociedad, with the latter claiming their first-ever trophy in the women’s game.

The Colchoneros could not have asked for a better start to the game as they went ahead 1-0. However, a Lola Gallardo howler between the sticks propelled Sociedad toward a famous victory amid the disappointment of the Atlético clan.

Nonetheless, the club has already moved on from the bitter ending to the campaign as they are already locking down some of their stars in order to remain competitive for the next campaign.

Key renewals

The first player to pledge her future to the club was Italian defender Elena Linari, who extended her stay until 2022.

“I am really humbled and proud to have been offered the chance to renew my contract with this club and I am really looking forward to spending the next three years at this fantastic club,” the former Fiorentina player told the club website.

Another player who has extended her stay at the club is Laia Alexandri who, like Linari, will remain an Atleti player until 2022. Alexandri joined the club from Barcelona B in 2017 and the 18-year-old has already proven herself a key player in the team despite her tender age.

Meanwhile, 20-year-old Alex Chidiac renewed her contract until 2021. The Australian midfielder joined from W-League club Adelaide United.

Transfer targets

Aside from renewals, Atlético Femenino have looked around to see which players are available to bring in who can give an extra competitive edge to the team, especially in view of the upcoming Women’s Champions League campaign.

So far, Atlético have been linked with Norwegian midfielder Andrine Hegerberg — sister of Ballon D’Or winner Ada — who is currently on the books at Paris Saint-Germain.

Moreover, the club is also reportedly interested in Montpellier midfielder Virgina Torrecilla and Espanyol defender Berta Pujadas.

New home

Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, delegate counsellor at the club, announced that Atlético Femenino will be moving from their Majadahonda home to play in a new stadium from next season. In fact, he revealed that construction on the Academy at Alcala de Henares will be completed next month.

The Academy will consist of four 11-aside pitches, two 7-aside fields and a mini stadium which will be offered to the youth teams.

European campaign

Also, it has been announced that Atlético’s three straight Spanish championships will make them a top seed in the upcoming Women’s Champions League draws.

This provides an opportunity to the club to avoid some of the big guns immediately, giving them the chance to advance further in this club competition.

Atleti players in France

Finally, eight players from Atlético Femenino will grace the fields of France during the upcoming 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Representing Spain will be Lola Gallardo, Amanda Sampedro, Silvia Meseguer, Andrea Falcon and Jenni Hermoso.

Elsewhere, Elena Linari is of Italy’s roster, Tounkara will play for hosts France while Brazil will have Ludmila in their ranks.