Alejandro Baena Rodríguez

Álex Baena began his football education at CD Roquetas before moving to the Villarreal youth academy at the age of 10. He completed his secondary schooling while rapidly advancing through Villarreal's highly regarded youth development system.

Álex Baena's career took root in the renowned Villarreal academy, which he joined in 2011. He steadily climbed through the C and B teams before making his senior first-team debut in La Liga during the 2020-2021 season. To accelerate his development, he was loaned to Girona for the 2021-2022 campaign, where his impressive performances were crucial in helping the Catalan club secure promotion to the top flight.

Returning to Villarreal for the 2022-2023 season, Baena experienced a true breakout year. He became a fixture in the starting lineup, consistently contributing goals and assists across domestic and European competitions. His exceptional vision and ability to strike from distance made him one of the most productive attacking midfielders in Spain, attracting widespread attention from elite clubs.

The summer of 2024 was historic for Baena on the international stage. After making his senior debut for Spain in late 2023, he was selected for the UEFA Euro 2024 squad that ultimately lifted the trophy in Germany. Just weeks later, he traveled to Paris with the Spanish U-23 squad, playing a starring role as they captured the Olympic Gold medal, capping off a breathtaking dual triumph.

Capitalizing on his soaring market value, Atlético Madrid secured Baena's signature in July 2025 in a blockbuster deal worth €45 million. Integrating into Diego Simeone's demanding system, Baena added a much-needed layer of creativity and flair to Atlético's midfield.

During the 2025-2026 season, he established himself as a key playmaker for the Rojiblancos. Despite facing the intense pressures of competing in the UEFA Champions League and challenging for the La Liga title, Baena's precise passing and tenacious work rate made him a standout performer in the Spanish capital.

Álex Baena remains deeply tied to his Andalusian roots, frequently returning to his coastal hometown of Roquetas de Mar to unwind and spend time with his family. He has often cited his family's unwavering support as the foundation of his rapid rise through the professional ranks.

Off the pitch, Baena maintains a relatively low profile compared to many of his high-profile peers. He is currently single and focuses intensely on his footballing development and adapting to life in Madrid. He is known to be a passionate follower of other sports, particularly padel and tennis, which he often plays during his downtime to maintain his fitness and agility.

Despite his youth, Baena has shown a mature approach to the pressures of professional football. He was previously involved in highly publicized on-field controversies, which he navigated by demonstrating resilience and letting his football do the talking. He is actively involved in community outreach programs in Almería, supporting local youth academies and encouraging the next generation of Andalusian talent.