Atletico Madrid's midfielder, Riquelme, moves to Real Betis
**Rodrigo Riquelme Makes a Fresh Start at Atletico Madrid**
Rodrigo Riquelme, the 25-year-old Spanish international midfielder and winger, has joined Atletico Madrid from Real Betis for the 2025/26 season. The transfer comes after a 15-year association with Real Betis, which saw Riquelme progress through their youth system, spend time on loan at Bournemouth, Mirandes, and Girona, and establish himself in the first team.
The transfer fee for Riquelme is reported to be around €18 million, with Atletico Madrid retaining the other half of his rights. This move marks a significant step in Riquelme's career as he moves from a club where he had fluctuating involvement to a fresh environment where he presumably will seek more consistent playing time and influence.
Riquelme is expected to replace Jesus Rodriguez, who recently departed Atletico Madrid for Italian club Como for a reported €25 million ($29.4 million). In his career, Riquelme has made a total of 85 appearances in La Liga and 14 appearances in the Copa del Rey.
During the 2024/25 season, Riquelme played 26 matches for Atlético Madrid, scoring one goal and providing two assists. He ended the season on a high note at Girona, where he exploded into prominence during the 2022-23 season.
Riquelme aims to establish himself further at Atletico Madrid, a club competing in the Spanish top flight and known for nurturing talent. This move represents a new chapter for Riquelme, who is poised to develop further and make a significant impact in the coming seasons.
**Key Details:**
* Age: 25 years old * Position: Midfielder / Winger * Previous Club: Real Betis (15 years, including loans) * Recent Season (2024/25): 26 appearances, 1 goal, 2 assists (all competitions) * New Club: Atletico Madrid * Contract Length: 5 years (until June 2030) * Transfer Fee: Approx. €18 million * Career Highlight: Established first-team player under Simeone, experience in La Liga and English Championship (loan) * Replacing: Jesus Rodriguez (who joined Italian club Como)
This move represents a new chapter for Riquelme, who is poised to develop further and make a significant impact at Atletico Madrid in the coming seasons.
- Riquelme's move to Atletico Madrid signifies a fresh chapter in his career, as he aims to build upon his experience in La Liga and make a significant impact in European leagues like the Champions League.
- Arriving at Atletico Madrid, a renowned club that boasts a rich history in nurturing talent, Riquelme looks forward to playing international sports such as football and competing against other European leagues.
- With his transfer to Atletico Madrid, the Spanish international midfielder and winger, Rodrigo Riquelme, is set to join a club aiming for glory in the Champions League and beyond, continuing his journey in international football.
