Atlético de Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Reviews Club Business Strategy and Future Investments.

Roger Hampel

Image: Atlético de Madrid

Atlético de Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil has reviewed the club’s current situation in an interview conducted by club media, reflecting on last season’s challenges and outlining strategic priorities for the coming years.

Sporting Context and Fan Growth Atlético de Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil

Ángel Gil highlighted both sporting and social progress during the 2024/25 season. The club once again achieved record numbers for season ticket holders, members, social media followers and matchday attendance. Off the pitch, agreements were strengthened regarding the financing and construction of the City of Sport, a large-scale development around the stadium that combines sports and entertainment facilities.

On the sporting side, Ángel Gil pointed to the Champions League match against Real Madrid as a turning point in the season, citing the impact of refereeing controversies on morale. Despite setbacks, he praised the resilience of players and staff in maintaining competitiveness.

Club World Cup and Global Profile

Atlético’s participation in the Club World Cup was described as both a source of pride and a missed opportunity. Representing Spain alongside Real Madrid, Atlético won two of three group matches but failed to advance due to goal difference. Ángel Gil underlined the importance of the tournament in raising the club’s profile globally, particularly in the United States, and strengthening ties with American supporters.

Transfer Market and Financial Investments

The CEO detailed the club’s strategy of renewing and rejuvenating the first-team squad, with numerous player departures and key signings over the past two years. He also emphasised the club’s financial efforts:

• A €120 million capital increase in 2021 to balance stadium financing and squad investment.

• A further €70 million capital increase in 2024 to support transfers such as Julián Álvarez, Sørloth, Le Normand and Gallagher.

• Plans for at least €60 million in new capital to continue financing transfers and the City of Sport project.

  
  

According to Gil, over the past eight seasons the club has made a net investment of €890 million in players, infrastructure and international ventures, including a franchise in Mexico now valued at approximately €150 million.

City of Sport Project

Ángel Gil described the City of Sport as “the most ambitious project ever created by a football club around its stadium.” The development is expected to transform Atlético’s image, boost revenues and expand leisure and entertainment offerings. Commitments have been made with the City Council, the Community of Madrid and local stakeholders, with the project framed as a benchmark for modern football infrastructure.

Balancing Fans and Shareholders

Throughout the interview, Ángel Gil emphasised the importance of maintaining balance between fans and shareholders. He noted that the heart of the club is its community, while also recognising the responsibility to deliver growth and shareholder value.

He concluded with a message of thanks to members, sponsors, supporters’ groups and staff, recognising their loyalty and commitment as key to Atlético’s ability to compete with clubs of greater financial strength.