Atletico Madrid have spent much of their history competing in the shadow of their city rivals, yet few clubs have built a fanbase and brand as big as Atletico. Founded in 1903 by Basque students living in Madrid as a branch of Athletic Club, Atletico gradually developed into one of Spain's biggest clubs. Today, they have won 11 LaLiga titles, 10 Copa del Rey trophies and multiple European honors, despite regularly operating with a smaller budget than both Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Throughout the 20th century, Atletico enjoyed periods of domestic success, particularly under legendary player and manager Luis Aragonés. However, the club truly established its modern identity after Diego Simeone returned as manager in December 2011. Simeone transformed Atletico into one of Europe's most disciplined and difficult teams to beat. Rather than relying on possession, his side became famous for defensive organization, tactical discipline and relentless intensity.
That philosophy delivered immediate success. In the 2013/14 season, Atletico won LaLiga ahead of both Real Madrid and Barcelona, ending their dominance after collecting 90 points. The title was secured on the final day with a 1-1 draw at Barcelona, while Diego Costa, Koke, Gabi and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois all played vital roles. Just one week later, Atletico Madrid reached the Champions League final for only the second time in their history. They were seconds away from lifting the trophy before Sergio Ramos equalized in stoppage time for Real Madrid, who eventually won in extra time. Two years later, Atlético reached another Champions League final against the same opponents but were defeated on penalties after another fiercely contested match.
Atletico Madrid's red and white striped shirts have become inseparable from the club's identity. The colors were adopted in 1911 after the club switched from blue and white, with the striped design remaining largely unchanged ever since. Nike has manufactured Atletico shirts since 2001, producing a combination of traditional striped designs and more modern interpretations. Among collectors, the 2013/14 home shirt remains especially desirable because it was worn during the unforgettable league-winning campaign and the run to the Champions League final. Likewise, the 2023/24 away shirt has become increasingly popular as it is a modern remake of Atletico's first ever football shirt. Earlier shirts from the late 1990s featuring Marbella as the main sponsor are also highly regarded by vintage collectors, reflecting a period when Atletico balanced between success and rebuilding before the Simeone era transformed the club once again.
