Axel Witsel's future at Atlético de Madrid appears to be hanging by a thread as the veteran Belgian footballer contemplates his next move with his contract expiring in June 2025. Once an integral figure under coach Diego Simeone, Witsel, now at 36 years of age, has seen his role diminish significantly this season, leading to a growing likelihood that he will seek a new challenge.
After the arrivals of new defensive players such as Clément Lenglet and Robin Le Normand, Witsel finds himself on the periphery of the squad, having not made an appearance since January. This lack of game time has had ramifications not only for his club standing but also for his international career—Belgium's management opted not to call him up during the latest international break.
In a recent interview with Belgian newspaper Le Soir, Witsel candidly expressed his readiness to explore new opportunities, stating, "I’ve already played in Russia and China. So I’m not closed off to anything, on the contrary, I’m open to any offer." His remarks suggest a shift in focus not just towards the footballing aspect but also towards his family's well-being.
Having initially extended his contract for one additional year last summer, Witsel had been a critical asset for Atlético, contributing significantly with 68 appearances in La Liga over the previous two seasons. However, recent changes in the squad have reshuffled the depth chart in defense, relegating him to an unused substitute role far too often.
As he navigates this transitional phase, Witsel is considering leagues that could align with his desire for an exciting final chapter in his career. The Major League Soccer (MLS) has emerged as a potential destination, with teams such as Los Angeles FC reportedly eyeing not just him but also fellow teammate Antoine Griezmann. Furthermore, the lucrative offers from the Saudi Pro League may also appeal to the seasoned player.
Looking ahead, Witsel’s ability to contribute in the remaining weeks of the season will be essential as Atlético pursues both La Liga and Copa del Rey glory. Simeone plans to utilize Witsel to keep the defense stable as the team navigates these critical fixtures, which may afford him one last chance to leave a lasting impression before parting ways with the club.
Reflecting on his uncertain future, Witsel stated, "To be honest, my future doesn’t worry me too much. It’s always the same – it will depend what’s on the table at the end of the season." This practical outlook reflects a player who's prioritizing not just his career prospects but also seeking an environment to thrive both personally and professionally.
As fans and analysts anticipate the moves within the Atlético Madrid setup ahead of the 2025/26 season, they can be sure that Witsel’s potential departure will be among the most talked-about topics. For now, he carries the experience of international play and a cache of memories but is also on the cusp of stepping into the unknown, ready to embrace whatever comes next.
