Atletico Madrid fans were left surprised this week after a video surfaced showing the team training barefoot, just days before their important La Liga match against Barcelona. The unusual training method sparked debate online, with many wondering why top professional footballers would ditch their boots.
The session was led by long-serving head coach Diego Simeone, who has managed Atletico Madrid since 2011 and transformed the club into one of Europe’s most competitive teams. Under his leadership, Atletico has won two La Liga titles, two Europa League trophies, and reached the Champions League final twice.
Why were the players training barefoot?
According to Spanish outlet Marca, the barefoot drills are part of a method known as grounding or earthing. This technique is believed to help players:
Improve balance and stability
Reduce muscle inflammation
Speed up recovery
Increase connection with the pitch, improving ball control and movement
In the viral video, striker Julián Álvarez was seen dribbling and shooting without boots, fully embracing the exercise.
Fans react online
Fans shared mixed reactions to the unusual training footage:
“Barefoot training is crazy man… Atletico players touching more grass than Barca fans did all year,” one joked.
Another commented, “Simeone does crazy stuff… but how does this help them win three points?”
A third added, “This makes sense. The best way to feel the pitch.”
While the reactions varied, fitness experts say grounding is increasingly being used in elite sports to reduce injuries and improve overall body alignment.
Atletico’s season so far
Atletico Madrid currently sits fourth in La Liga with 31 points, just three behind leaders Barcelona. A big win at Camp Nou could temporarily push them to the top of the table.
Goalkeeper Jan Oblak, speaking to Al Jazeera, said the team must maintain consistency.
“We’re doing well both defensively and offensively. The past doesn’t matter—what matters now is staying focused.”
In the Champions League, Atletico is 12th in the new 36-team league format with 9 points. They are set to face PSV Eindhoven next week.
Extra note: Barcelona once asked Lewandowski to stop scoring
In a related story, Barcelona reportedly asked striker Robert Lewandowski to slow down his scoring during his first season due to the club’s financial issues—highlighting just how strained Barca’s budget has been.
