Atletico Madrid Appoints Alemany as Director of Football

Atletico Madrid has named Mateu Alemany as their new director of men’s professional football, the club confirmed on Tuesday.

Alemany, 62, who left Barcelona in 2023, began his role by meeting Atletico’s first team and holding discussions with head coach Diego Simeone, the club said.

During his tenure at Barcelona, Alemany played a key role in rebuilding the squad and helping the club secure the 2023 La Liga title under president Joan Laporta.

He oversaw the club’s strategic use of “financial levers” to fund major signings including Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Jules Kounde in 2022, while also helping stabilise finances and reduce the wage bill.

At Atletico, Alemany will report to general director of football Carlos Bucero, who oversees both the B team and youth academy. The Madrid club, which has had a challenging start to the season and sits fifth, eight points behind leaders Real Madrid, recently recorded a 5-2 victory over city rivals in the derby on September 27.