Fabián Ruiz removes Atlético Madrid flag during Spain's celebration

Atlético Madrid was a key part of Spain's celebration after their 2026 World Cup victory. Four rojiblanco players -Álex Baena, Marcos Llorente, Marc Pubill and Rodrigo Hernández- displayed club symbols during the bus parade in Madrid. Baena even hung an Atlético flag at the front of the vehicle, though Fabián Ruiz removed it playfully. League standing: 4th in La Liga, 69 pts, 21W-6D-11L from 38 games, recent form LWWLW.

What happened with the Atlético Madrid flag?

Álex Baena, after his controversial greeting to President Pedro Sánchez, proudly showed Atlético's colors. He placed a club flag on the bus and encouraged Llorente, Pubill and Rodrigo Hernández to pose with it. However, Fabián Ruiz, upon seeing it, immediately removed it in a lighthearted manner. Baena put it back later, while Pubill wore a rojiblanco scarf, reminiscent of Fernando Torres in 2010.

Why is this relevant for Atlético Madrid?

The club had the most players in the 2026 World Cup final, with four in the Spanish squad. The presence of Baena, Llorente, Pubill and Rodrigo Hernández strengthens the rojiblanco identity in the national team. The flag incident also shows the players' pride in the club, despite transfer rumors, such as Fabián Ruiz potentially joining Atlético or Real Madrid this summer.

What's next for Atlético Madrid?

With the 2025-26 season concluded (League standing: 4th in La Liga, 69 pts, 21W-6D-11L from 38 games, recent form LWWLW), the club is focused on the transfer market. The recent 5-1 loss to Villarreal (2026-05-24) and the inconsistent end to the season (3W-0D-2L in the last five games) highlight the need for reinforcements. The players who shone at the World Cup could be crucial in the next campaign.