Álex Baena overcomes incidents and shines in the Spanish team after challenging season at Atlético By Janderson Luiz
4 min read
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The name of Álex Baena, a 23-year-old midfielder, emerges as one of the great stories of overcoming and renewal on the Spanish football scene. After a period of little consistency at Atlético de Madrid, the national team player found himself under the command of Luis de la Fuente, consolidating his position in the squad competing in the World Cup in Mexico, the United States and Canada. His rise, marked by a decisive goal against Uruguay, represents a significant turnaround in his trajectory.
The complicated spell at Atlético de Madrid and the new chance
The recent season at Atlético de Madrid was not the easiest for Álex Baena, who arrived at the club with high expectations and a transaction valued at 45 million euros. However, the playing style implemented by coach Diego Simeone did not completely align with the young athlete’s characteristics, resulting in a performance below expectations. With the departure of Antoine Griezmann, Baena was given the challenging task of filling an important gap in the attack, an opportunity that he now seeks to realize on the pitch. Teammates, such as Marcos Llorente, have publicly expressed their confidence in the midfielder’s ability to take on this responsibility.
Coach Luis de la Fuente’s faith and renewed confidence
If there is someone who has always believed in Álex Baena’s potential, it is coach Luis de la Fuente. The commander of the Spanish national team has known the player since the youth teams, having trained him at different stages of his development. This connection and the coach’s unshakable faith were crucial for Baena’s call-up, who, despite the difficulties at the club, demonstrated resilience and talent. His answer came on the field, with convincing performances and an important goal against Uruguay, as well as a good performance against Austria, solidifying his position in the team.
Early decision and sacrifice for a football career
Álex Baena’s life changed drastically at the age of 11, when Villarreal signed him for their youth squad. This was a difficult choice, which led him to live more than 500 kilometers from his family in Roquetas de Mar, Almería. His mother, Sara Rodríguez, was his main supporter, encouraging him to follow his dream. The effort required many sacrifices and a life of sacrifices from a very early age:
- Family Distance:Living alone and away from parents and siblings at such a young age, facing loneliness and homesickness.
- Loss of childhood and adolescence:The intense dedication to football resulted in the absence of activities typical of the age, such as playing with friends and social events.
- Strict routine:The need for constant training and games prevented participation in common moments that other young people enjoyed.
This early journey forged the determination that accompanies him to this day.
The incident with Fede Valverde and the personal impact
Baena’s career was marked by a moment of extreme difficulty in April 2023, when he was attacked by Fede Valverde in the Santiago Bernabéu parking lot. The incident generated a huge media repercussion and a wave of attacks on the player on social media, with accusations of disrespectful comments about Valverde’s wife’s pregnancy – something that Baena has always vehemently denied. This troubled period almost led him to abandon football.
His family’s support was essential for him to overcome the crisis. Psychological support also played a vital role in his recovery. Baena revealed that the worldwide repercussion of the case, involving a club like Real Madrid, deeply affected him, mainly due to the death threats directed at him and his family. However, it was precisely during this period of uncertainty that Luis de la Fuente’s call to the national team emerged, functioning as a turning point and motivation for his return.
The non-negotiable importance of family in the player’s journey
Family plays a central role in Álex Baena’s life. He is the second of five siblings – Miquel, Nuria, Yaiza and Martina – and has a strong connection with his mother, Sara Rodríguez, 48 years old. This deep connection manifests itself in his preference for having them present at all his games and tournaments. Before each match, Baena makes a point of meeting them in the stands, a ritual that brings him peace of mind and the feeling that he is not alone on his journey. His private life is quite private, and little is known about his current romantic relationships.
Álex Baena’s story is a testament to resilience and the importance of a solid support system. From a challenging season at his club to a prominent role in the national team, his trajectory inspires with his ability to transform adversity into opportunities, always with the support of his family and the trust of his mentors. His focus is now on the World Cup, where he seeks to fulfill his dream of becoming champion.
