Atlético welcome Real this Saturday in the first Madrid derby of the season.
While few players have dared to cross the divide, there are a surprising number who have worn both the famous white of Real and the stripes of Atlético. From icons of the modern era to cult heroes of the past, here are some of the most notable names.
Thibaut Courtois
The Belgian shot-stopper spent three seasons on loan at Atlético from Chelsea, becoming one of the best keepers in La Liga in the process. Courtois was instrumental in Atlético’s 2013/14 title win, pulling off remarkable saves and keeping clean sheets that provided a solid foundation for Diego Simeone’s side.
In 2018 he made the controversial switch to Real Madrid, where he cemented himself as first-choice keeper and played a starring role in their Champions League triumph in 2022. Courtois’ move across the city may not have been popular with Atleti fans, but his class between the sticks is undeniable.
Marcos Llorente
A product of Real Madrid’s youth academy, Llorente is one of the first names on the team sheet for this Atlético side.
Having found game time hard to come by at the Bernabéu, Llorente crossed the city to join Atlético in 2019. Since then, he has impressed with his versatility, energy and adaptability as both a midfielder and right-back.
Llorente has twice scored braces against Liverpool in the Champions League, including an extra time double in the 2019/20 Round of 16.
Theo Hernández
Theo came through Atlético’s ranks before making a big-money move to Real Madrid in 2017. The left-back never truly established himself in the capital and struggled for minutes behind Marcelo. A loan spell at Real Sociedad preceded his permanent move to AC Milan, where he has since flourished into one of the best attacking full-backs in world football. The French international has subsequently moved to Saudi Pro League club Al Hilal.
Juanfran
A true Atlético legend, Juanfran started his career at Real Madrid, making only a handful of appearances for Los Blancos. After developing further at Osasuna, he joined Atlético in 2011 and became one of the club’s most consistent performers.
Juanfran was key to Simeone’s great Atlético sides, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, two Europa Leagues and reaching two Champions League finals. Despite his missed penalty in the 2016 final, Juanfran remains adored by Atleti fans for his decade of service and unwavering commitment.
Álvaro Morata
Few players have switched between the rivals as often as Morata. A Real Madrid academy graduate, he enjoyed two spells with Los Blancos, scoring important goals and being part of the squad that lifted two Champions League trophies.
In 2019 he made the move across the capital, initially on loan, before becoming a permanent signing for Atlético. While his time at Atleti has been mixed, Morata has provided valuable goals and led the line with his trademark work rate. For both clubs, he has been a reliable forward even if not always the headline star.
Sergio Reguilón
Another Real academy product, Reguilón broke through at the Bernabéu in 2018 under Santiago Solari. Despite showing promise as an energetic left-back, he found himself behind Marcelo and later Ferland Mendy in the pecking order. After a standout loan at Sevilla, Reguilón joined Tottenham.
In 2022 he returned to Madrid on loan – this time with Atlético. Although his spell was brief, it added his name to the small list of players to have worn both shirts in the capital.
Santiago Solari
An elegant Argentine midfielder, Solari first joined Atlético Madrid in 1999, impressing with his technique and intelligence on the ball. His performances earned him a move to Real Madrid, where he became part of the iconic Galácticos era.
Solari’s versatility made him a valuable squad player, and he played his part in Real’s Champions League win in 2002. He later returned to the club as a coach, eventually becoming first-team manager in 2018 for a short spell.
José Antonio Reyes
The late Spanish winger tragically passed away in a car accident in 2019.
Reyes spent a season on loan at Real Madrid from Arsenal in 2006/07, scoring two crucial goals on the final day that secured the La Liga title.
Later, he joined Atlético Madrid and became a key figure under Quique Sánchez Flores, helping the club to Europa League success in 2010. Known for his flair and technical brilliance, Reyes is remembered fondly by fans across Spain and his loss was felt deeply by the footballing community.
