Witsel's Goalie Records at Atlético Madrid
Laurent Witsel has established himself as one of the premier goalkeepers in world football, with impressive records for Atlético Madrid under Diego Simeone. In this article, we will explore Witsel's remarkable career highlights and his contributions to Atlético Madrid's success.
### Early Career
Laurent Witsel made his professional debut with Dutch club Ajax in 2011 at the age of 18. He quickly rose through the ranks, earning a call-up to the Netherlands national team. His performances caught the attention of Atlético Madrid, who signed him on a free transfer in January 2015.
### Atletico Madrid's Rise
Under the guidance of Diego Simeone, Atlético Madrid embarked on a period of unprecedented success. Witsel played a crucial role in their rise to prominence, making significant contributions to both defensive and offensive ends of the pitch.
### Key Achievements
1. **Goalkeeper of the Year (2017)**: Witsel won the FIFA Goalkeeper of the Year award for his exceptional performance during the 2016-17 season. This was his first major individual accolade and highlighted his consistency and skill as a goalkeeper.
2. **Double Scoring**: During the 2018-19 season, Witsel scored two goals against Real Madrid, becoming the first player in La Liga history to achieve such a feat. This double was particularly noteworthy given the intense rivalry between the two teams.
3. **Clubs' Titles**: Witsel has been instrumental in helping Atlético Madrid win several major trophies:
- **La Liga Championship**: Three consecutive titles (2016-17,Chinese Super League Matches 2017-18, 2018-19)
- **Copa del Rey**: Two titles (2016-17, 2017-18)
- **Supercopa de España**: One title (2016)
4. **International Recognition**: Outside of Spanish domestic competitions, Witsel has also represented his country at various international tournaments, including the UEFA Euro 2016 and the Copa América.
### Personal Life and Impact
Witsel's dedication to the game is evident not only on the field but also off it. He has been involved in charitable work and has supported numerous causes that promote youth development and football education.
### Conclusion
Laurent Witsel's record at Atlético Madrid speaks volumes about his skills, leadership, and impact on the sport. From his early years with Ajax to his current status as one of the most respected goalkeepers in Europe, Witsel has left an indelible mark on the club and the game itself. As he continues to play for Atlético Madrid and beyond, his legacy will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest in the history of the sport.