Enrique Cerezo Discusses Atlético’s Champions League Aspirations and Transfer Strategy

Enrique Cerezo, president of Atlético Madrid, provided an update on the team’s current situation just hours before their important UEFA Champions League match against Galatasaray. This encounter is pivotal for the club’s chances of finishing in the top eight of the group stage. Cerezo also discussed the transfer market, firmly stating the club’s stance: “We will not sign players for the sake of signing; any new additions must be an improvement.”

Cerezo stressed the urgency of winning: “Indeed, today, only victory matters. If we truly aspire to achieve something in the Champions League, we must win this match and the next one.”

When asked about the team’s confidence in securing a top-eight finish, he replied, “We have always had confidence from the beginning. However, tonight’s match will be challenging. We have played here numerous times—at least seven or eight from what I can recall. Our previous results have been decent, but each game is unique. Tonight will be tough for both sides. If we want to achieve anything in life, we must fight for it, and today we need to fight.”

Regarding the ongoing transfer market, he noted, “With only ten days remaining in the transfer window, we are not focusing on that now. Our priority is the important match we have today, which we need to win. There is time left until the winter market opens, and we must wait for opportunities to bring in quality players who are better than those we have lost.”

Cerezo expressed the need to improve away performances: “Teams go through various phases; some have good moments, others have bad. We hope to experience a good moment today to make a significant leap in the standings.”

On the prospect of recruiting two new players, he commented, “I cannot say how many will come. However, I can assure you that if new players do not meet our standards, it is best that they do not join at all. We must evaluate potential signings carefully, ensuring they are quality players capable of contributing positively to the team.”

Regarding the squad’s size, he acknowledged, “Yes, the squad is short, but there is still time until February 2nd to make necessary additions.”

He expressed optimism for Julián’s performance: “Julián needs our confidence. He is an exceptional player and one of Atlético Madrid’s key assets. Like all athletes, he has his ups and downs. I hope today marks a turning point for Julián and brings the joy we all anticipate for him and for us.”

When asked about Julián’s struggles, Cerezo reflected, “I don’t know. Humans can fluctuate greatly; one moment we are thriving, and the next, we may struggle. However, Julián is young and has significant potential for recovery. His performance improved last Sunday against Alavés, and I believe he is steadily getting better.”

On the financial capacity for substantial investments in this market, he clarified, “It is not a matter of money; it is about ensuring that any new players are valuable and match the quality of those we have let go—or exceed it.”

Lastly, concerning Kang-in Lee, he stated, “I find all players promising until they arrive here… and even afterward. All are talented athletes, but they must adapt to our environment.”