Atletico’s consistency highlights Man Utd’s instability since Ferguson

Atletico Madrid have claimed La Liga twice under coach Diego Simeone, in 2014 and 2021, even when facing off against powerhouses Barcelona and Real Madrid. Meanwhile, Manchester United head to Madrid for a Champions League match against Atletico, but their trip serves as a stark reminder of the instability since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.

Simeone took over Atletico in December 2011, a year before Ferguson's retirement after 26 years of success at United. Since then, United has seen seven permanent managers, as well as caretakers, and hasn't won a single Premier League title. In contrast, Atletico has remained among Spain's elite with Simeone, winning the league in 2014 and 2021 despite battling against Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Atletico has consistently played in the Champions League since 2013-14, reaching the final twice and semi-finals twice. United, however, has missed out on Europe's top competition multiple times since Ferguson's departure, a decline for a club that once dominated the continent under his leadership. Atletico's identity under Simeone has remained strong, with a work ethic and drive that has even evolved their defensive style into a more attacking one.

United, on the other hand, has gone through a string of managers with varying philosophies, only experiencing consistency in their lack of stability. Even Atletico's stadium, the Metropolitano, highlights their differences, as it hosted the 2019 Champions League final, while Manchester United's Old Trafford was not selected for Euro 2028.

Atletico supporters have their own criticisms, but when compared to the constant upheaval at Old Trafford, they can be grateful for the continuity they have enjoyed. This season, Atletico has started well, despite uncertainty surrounding former Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, who eventually stayed in Madrid despite trying to force his way to Barcelona.

He scored a late goal during Atletico's 2-1 win over Alaves, securing their fourth consecutive victory. Nonetheless, Michael Carrick's United is struggling with consistency, sitting 13th in the Premier League and having their worst start to a domestic campaign since 1986/87. The recent draw against Tottenham has increased the pressure on Carrick to turn things around quickly.