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Atlético kicks off its preseason with a defeat against Porto and many questions to be answered

Atlético Madrid laced up their boots once again in their first summer friendly against Porto, and although the score (1-0) left a bitter taste, it served as a starting point for drawing conclusions. In a match with little rhythm and more questions than answers, the Rojiblancos showed glimpses of what is expected in the 2025-26 season, marked by Oblak's continuity in goal and Simeone's eternal 4-4-2 formation.

The first important new development was seen at left-back, where Matteo Ruggeri, newly arrived from Atalanta, made his debut and passed his first test with the Rojiblancos. Up front, Álex Baena, with his creative profile, was in charge of finding partners in attack, where Julián Álvarez and Sorloth were on the move. The goal, however, came from the Portuguese side just before half-time. It was scored by Victor Froholdt, one of the great promises of Danish football, who took advantage of a move down the wing to unleash a shot across goal that was impossible for Oblak to save.

During the first half, Atleti tried to maintain their usual defensive order, although they struggled to create any real danger. The closest they came to scoring was a long-range shot from Julián Álvarez that ended up crashing off the crossbar, making it clear that the Argentine still has that touch of magic near the box. Meanwhile, Porto, in the midst of rebuilding, showed more hunger than football, but knew how to seize the moment.

The second half was more subdued. Simeone, as is customary in pre-season, changed the entire team and brought on the new signings: Dávid Hancko, Marc Pubill, Thiago Almada and Johnny Cardoso, the latter expected to be a pillar in midfield after his successful spell at Betis. The massive rotation meant that the game lost even more rhythm, although the Argentine coach was able to see all his new signings in action.

The second half also saw a standout performance from 18-year-old Porto youth player Rodrigo Mora, who revolutionised the Portuguese attack with his speed and audacity. He was one of the few players who managed to trouble the Colchonero defence and Juan Musso, the goalkeeper who was signed by Atleti this summer.

Despite the setback, the coaching staff will value these matches more for what they leave in terms of preparation than for the result. However, the match once again highlighted some pieces that do not quite fit. Koke, Gallagher and Lenglet are doubtful, either due to lack of form or simple competition. The Metropolitano will not wait, and those who do not measure up will soon learn what it demands.

With their sights already set on Saturday's clash with Newcastle, Simeone and his team know they have work to do. The season kicks off on 17 August against Espanyol and time is running out. In addition, the transfer market is still open and there may still be surprises. Will there be any more signings? Will any important players leave? The Rojiblanco summer saga still has chapters to be written.

For now, the only thing that is clear is that Atleti is still Oblak's team, with its ironclad defence and collective work ethic. But if it wants to fight for everything this season, it will need something more. More punch, more clarity in attack and, perhaps, a few tweaks to the squad. Time will tell if the stumble in Porto was just an insignificant rehearsal or a sign that there is still a lot to be adjusted.