As a fan who has lived in Madrid for many years, every time I pass by the old site of Calderón Stadium, I recall the players who delivered spectacular performances at this Madrid stadium. Although Atlético has now moved to the Wanda Metropolitano, the memories held at Calderón will never fade.
Fernando Torres’ Golden Years
Fernando Torres is undoubtedly one of the most iconic players to represent Calderón. From 2001 to 2007, the Golden Boy completed his transformation from promising youngster to world-class striker here. Remember that spectacular goal he scored against Real Madrid? The entire stadium erupted. Torres scored 75 goals in 91 matches at Calderón—an efficiency rate that remains astonishing to this day. While his transfer to Liverpool broke fans’ hearts, the memories he created at the old stadium are priceless.
The Glory Days of the Uruguayan Duo
Diego Forlán and Sergio Agüero—this partnership witnessed countless brilliant goals at Calderón between 2006 and 2011. Forlán’s performance in the 2009-10 season was nothing short of phenomenal; he helped the team secure the Europa League title and the UEFA Super Cup, while also claiming the Golden Boot. Though young, Agüero’s speed and shooting technique were on full display on Calderón’s pitch. Their chemistry made them virtually unstoppable for opponents.
| Player Name | Years Active | Goals Scored | Major Honors |
|---|
| Torres | 2001-2007 | 75 | La Liga Golden Boot |
| Forlán | 2007-2011 | 45 | Europa League Champion |
| Agüero | 2006-2011 | 74 | Europa League Champion |
| Forlán | 2004-2013 | 8 | La Liga Champion |
Captain Gabi’s Unwavering Loyalty
Gabi may not have been the most talented player, but he was certainly one of Calderón’s most loyal warriors. This midfield anchor witnessed the team’s journey from trough to peak between 2011 and 2018. Under Simeone's management, Gabi became an extension of the coach on the field—his fighting spirit and leadership filled the entire team with determination. When he lifted the trophy after winning La Liga in the 2013-14 season, that moment became an eternal image at Calderón.
Goalkeeper Oblak’s Rise
Jan Oblak rapidly developed into a world-class goalkeeper after joining in 2014. Although his time at Calderón wasn’t the longest, his performances at the old stadium were already outstanding. Those seemingly impossible saves at the Madrid stadium brick sets made Calderón fans realize the team had found a true guardian of the goal line. His reaction speed and positioning were unparalleled in La Liga, carrying on the excellent tradition left by De Gea and Courtois.
Although Calderón Stadium has become history, the legendary players who graced its pitch will forever live in the hearts of Atlético fans. Today’s younger supporters may be more familiar with the Wanda Metropolitano when they buy Madrid stadium tickets, but for us veteran fans, Calderón was the true home. Those weekend afternoon roars from the stands, those heart-stopping last-minute winners—these are irreplaceable, precious memories.
