Álex Baena came through Villarreal’s academy and won the Europa League with the club in 2021. After a loan spell at Girona, he returned to Villarreal and became one of the most creative players in La Liga.
His left foot is his main weapon: Baena is a set-piece specialist and ranked among La Liga’s leaders in assists and chances created for several seasons. His form earned him a place in the Spain squad, and he won Olympic gold at Paris 2024.
Atlético Madrid signed him in 2025 as a creative presence to supply their forwards.
Playing style
Baena is a creative, left-footed attacking midfielder who specialises in chance creation. His passing and crossing are among the best in La Liga, and he is a dangerous set-piece taker. He usually plays on the left, drifting inside to create or shoot, but can also play as a No. 10. He is also known for his combative spirit, which sometimes leads to clashes with opponents. His creativity makes him an important player for Atlético’s attack.
International career
Baena made his Spain debut in 2024 and was part of the squad that won Olympic gold at Paris 2024, where he scored a free-kick in the final against France. He has since become a regular in the senior squad.
Career in numbers
Since his first senior season in 2019/20, Baena has made 247 club appearances and scored 37 goals in all competitions for 3 clubs. His most productive season in front of goal was 2022/23, when he scored 12 times in 48 games for Villarreal. So far in 2026/27 he has 4 goals in 8 appearances for Atlético Madrid. The full season-by-season record is in the Stats section of this profile.