Three well-known names you may have forgotten played for Barcelona and Atletico Madrid
Three well-known names you may have forgotten played for Barcelona and Atletico Madrid When discussing transfers between Spanish giants, moves involving Barcelona and Real Madrid often dominate headlines due to their fierce rivalry. However, the relationship between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid has historically been far more cordial at an institutional level. This mutual respect has made player movement between the two clubs far less controversial and, at times, surprisingly frequent.
Over the years, several high-profile names have represented both sides. Players like Luis Suarez, Joao Felix, and David Villa are often the first to come to mind. Yet, beyond these headline-makers, there are a few lesser-remembered players who also shared this unique connection.
Here’s a closer look at three such forgotten names who quietly featured for both clubs. Memphis Depay Depay played for both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) When Memphis Depay arrived at Barcelona in 2021, expectations were high.
Fresh off an outstanding spell at Lyon, the Dutch forward joined on a free transfer and quickly became one of the team’s attacking focal points during a transitional period. Depay’s time at Camp Nou lasted one and a half seasons, during which he made 42 appearances and scored 14 goals. Despite flashes of brilliance, inconsistency and managerial changes limited his long-term role at the club.
In January 2023, he made the switch to Atletico Madrid in a deal reportedly worth just over €4 million. Interestingly, his stint with Atletico mirrored his Barcelona journey. Once again, Depay spent around one and a half seasons in Madrid before moving on, this time heading to Brazilian side Corinthians in 2024, where he continues to play.