Mexican Midfielder Ronaldo Nájera Signs with Atlético de Madrid

Reports from Spanish and Mexican media state that Atlético de Madrid has signed Mexican midfielder Ronaldo Nájera on the last day of the transfer window. The 22-year-old previously played for Atlético San Luis and will join Atlético’s B team after his time at Tigres, where he did not make the first team.

Nájera, from Ciudad Mante in Tamaulipas, spent six years in the Tigres academy from 2018 to 2024. After not getting first-team chances, he moved to San Luis, where he impressed with four goals and four assists in 34 matches last season, earning recognition as a promising player.

The transfer places Nájera in Atlético Madrid’s reserve side in Spain’s third division. While he won’t work directly with coach Diego Simeone right away, this move puts him in a competitive environment known for its discipline and physical demands. It also allows him to adapt to European football and aim for a spot on the senior team.

This transfer showcases the strong connection between Atlético San Luis and Atlético de Madrid, which has been active for several years. This partnership facilitated the deal and highlights the path for young Latin American talents to develop.

For Tigres, Nájera’s move shows that youth players can find opportunities abroad, even if they don’t debut in Monterrey. For him, this transfer is a significant opportunity to establish himself in Europe and advance his career.