Atlético Madrid have finalized a deal to sign U.S. international Johnny Cardoso from La Liga rivals Real Betis. The 23-year-old midfielder has agreed to a contract that ties him to the club until June 2030.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that the agreement was reached for a sum close to €30 million ($34.8 million). Cardoso joins a growing list of U.S. men’s national team players making high-profile moves in Europe, following Malik Tillman’s switch to Bayer Leverkusen and Patrick Agyemang’s transfer to Derby County. Tim Weah, meanwhile, is reportedly being tracked by Nottingham Forest and Olympique Marseille.
Unlike some of his national teammates, Cardoso remains in the Spanish top flight. His performances last season helped Real Betis secure a sixth-place finish and a spot in the Conference League final, where they lost to Chelsea.
A fresh addition to Simeone’s midfield
Atlético Madrid praised the new signing, describing him as a midfielder with sharp defensive instincts, solid distribution, and the ability to contribute offensively. The club sees Cardoso as a key reinforcement in an area that needed fresh energy.
With veteran Koke now 33 and Rodrigo De Paul reportedly drawing interest from Inter Miami, Diego Simeone needed a dynamic option in the center of the pitch. Cardoso’s style – assertive and physical – complements the club’s tactical identity under the Argentine coach.
The former Real Betis player is known for his ball-winning abilities and isn’t shy about challenging opponents in high-pressure moments. His mindset fits the intensity Simeone demands, especially when it comes to disrupting opposition attacks.
Building for a stronger campaign
Atlético are aiming to rebound from a frustrating 2024–25 campaign that saw them finish third in the league and exit the Champions League in the round of 16 at the hands of Real Madrid. The club has responded in the summer window by strengthening several areas of the squad.
Attacking options have been boosted with the arrivals of Thiago Almada, who previously played in MLS, and Álex Baena. Defensively, Matteo Ruggeri has joined, while Clément Lenglet made his stay permanent after a positive loan stint from Barcelona.
Cardoso’s arrival adds balance to the midfield and presents the player with a new opportunity – his first in the Champions League. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the American will also be eager to convince USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino that he deserves a spot in the starting lineup, especially after recent underwhelming showings with the national team.
