Atlético Madrid are making waves in the 2026 summer transfer window, and manager Diego Simeone has uncovered a hidden gem in the club’s youth ranks. Arnau Ortiz, a 21-year-old winger from Figueres’ academy, is impressing in pre-season training and could force his way into the first team sooner than expected.

Who is Arnau Ortiz and why is Simeone raving about him?

Arnau Ortiz is no stranger to Spanish football. The winger, who came through Figueres’ academy, has previously played for Espanyol, Racing de Santander, Girona and Mallorca before joining Atlético Madrid’s youth setup. His standout numbers in the Primera Federación last season -24 goals and seven assists- already caught the eye of several clubs, but Simeone has seen him up close in pre-season and has nothing but praise for his quality.

The Argentine, known for his high standards and sharp eye for young talent, has highlighted Ortiz’s progress in training. "We’re pleasantly surprised by his performance," Simeone admitted, now considering whether the academy product can make the leap to the first team ahead of schedule. The manager is typically cautious with youth players, but pre-season is changing his view.

Why is Atlético Madrid betting on youth in 2026?

Atlético Madrid enter the 2026 summer with a squad in transition. The sale of Thiago Almada has opened a door to strengthen the attack, and Simeone is looking inward before turning to the transfer market. Ortiz fits the profile the manager needs: a winger with an eye for goal and the ability to unlock defenses.

Sporting director Mateu Alemany has prioritized bringing in external signings for striker and winger roles, but the surprise could come from within. The club’s hierarchy sold assets that didn’t fit Simeone’s plans to generate funds, yet Ortiz could disrupt those plans if his pre-season form holds.

What’s next for Arnau Ortiz and Atlético Madrid?

Atlético Madrid are still awaiting the return of several internationals for pre-season, but Simeone has already greenlit Ortiz to train with the first team. The winger, who joined the club in 2025, has seized his chance and now depends on himself to convince the manager.

If Ortiz maintains his level, he could make his first-team debut ahead of schedule, something not originally planned by the club. Simeone, who tends to be cautious with academy players, has shifted his stance after seeing his progress in training. Pre-season is the ideal time for managers to give youngsters a shot, and Atlético Madrid are no exception.

Atlético Madrid finished the 2025 season in fourth place in La Liga with 69 points, 21 wins, six draws and 11 losses, 25 points behind leaders Barcelona. With a squad in flux, the bet on Ortiz could pay off if the winger confirms his potential in the upcoming friendlies and at the start of the new campaign.