So, you’ve picked Atleti. You’re sitting there in the menus of FC 25, looking at that 5-3-2 or 4-4-2 hybrid, and you’re wondering if Diego Simeone’s "Cholismo" actually translates to the virtual pitch this year. It does. But honestly, it’s not how you think.
People usually sleep on Atletico Madrid FC 25 because they aren't Real Madrid or City. They don't have three players with 90+ pace. But in the current meta—where physical play and tactical AI actually matter—this squad is kind of a cheat code if you know how to use the new FC IQ system.
The Griezmann Factor: More Than Just Ratings
Antoine Griezmann is the soul of this team. In FC 25, his PlayStyle+ profile makes him one of the most unique cards in the game. He’s got that Finesse Shot+ that still feels slightly overpowered from the edge of the box, but it's his Technical and Trivela traits that make him a nightmare to defend.
He isn't a burner. Don't try to outrun Alphonso Davies with him. You’ll lose. Instead, Griezmann operates best in the "False 9" or "Shadow Striker" roles within the new FC IQ tactical presets. Because his passing is so crisp, he can drop deep, drag a center-back out of position, and then ping a ball over the top.
The real magic happens when you pair him with Alexander Sorloth.
If Griezmann is the surgeon, Sorloth is the sledgehammer. The Norwegian is a monster in the air. With the way crossing has been tweaked in FC 25, having a guy with his height and Strength rating means you don't always have to play "beautiful" football. Sometimes, you just hit a lofted cross and let him bully the keeper. It feels dirty. It works.
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Breaking Down the Midfield Grit
The midfield is where things get interesting. You've got Koke, De Paul, and Gallagher. It’s a scrappy bunch.
Conor Gallagher is a massive addition to the Atletico Madrid FC 25 roster because of his "Relentless" PlayStyle. The guy literally does not stop running. In a game where stamina drain is more punishing than ever, having a box-to-box player who can still press in the 85th minute is huge.
- Rodrigo De Paul: He’s your transition man. His Long Ball Pass PlayStyle is essential for counter-attacking.
- Koke: He’s a bit slow this year, let's be real. Use him as a Deep Lying Playmaker. Keep him central.
- Marcos Llorente: Still the most versatile player in the game. You can play him at RB, RM, or CM. His pace (89+) is the "get out of jail free" card for this squad.
Honestly, if you aren't starting Llorente, you're doing it wrong. His ability to recover when you've been caught out on a counter-attack is why he’s stayed in most pro-level squads even when higher-rated cards come out.
Why the Defense is a Tactical Puzzle
Defense is where some players struggle with Atleti. Robin Le Normand and Jose Maria Gimenez are solid, but they aren't the fastest. If you play a high line, you’re going to get burned by Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr. every single time. There is no way around that.
The key is the "Low Block" tactic.
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Simeone’s real-world tactics are built into the game’s DNA. Use the "Defensive" or "Counter-Attack" tactical focus. This keeps your back line deep. It forces your opponent to try and pass through a crowded box, which plays right into the hands of Jan Oblak. Oblak remains one of the best shot-stoppers in the game, especially against long-range efforts, though his distribution is still a bit "meh."
The FC IQ Setup for Atletico Madrid FC 25
The new FC IQ system replaces the old Work Rates and Instructions with "Roles." For Atletico, this is a game-changer.
Setting Julian Alvarez as an "Advanced Forward" while Griezmann plays as a "Half-Winger" or "Deep Lying Forward" creates a weird movement pattern that the AI struggles to track. Alvarez is incredibly nimble. His acceleration allows him to exploit the tiny gaps Griezmann creates.
Also, don't overlook Samuel Lino. His dribbling stats are surprisingly high, and he’s perfect for the "Inside Forward" role if you decide to ditch the 5-man backline for a more aggressive 4-3-3.
What Most People Get Wrong
The biggest mistake? Trying to play like it’s FC 24.
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Last year, it was all about the sprint button. This year, the game rewards physical positioning. Atletico Madrid FC 25 is built for this. They are heavy. They are strong. They win second balls. If you try to play a tiki-taka style with this squad, you'll probably get frustrated because they aren't as "silky" as Barcelona or City.
But if you embrace the grind? If you use the "Press After Possession Loss" instruction and let Gallagher and De Paul wreak havoc? You’ll find that opponents start making mistakes. They get rushed. They throw away the ball. That’s when you strike.
Actionable Tips for Your Next Match
To actually dominate with this team, stop treating them like a B-tier squad and start using these specific adjustments:
- Manual Triggering: Since the strikers aren't 99 pace, you have to use L1/LB triggers to start their runs early. Don't wait for the AI to do it.
- Corner Mastery: Sorloth and Gimenez are aerial threats. Set your corners to 3 or 4 bars. Aim for the near post. It’s a goal 30% of the time if you time the header right.
- The Llorente Swap: If you’re chasing a game, move Llorente to CM. If you’re defending a lead, move him to RB. His versatility is his greatest strength.
- Sub Early: Alvarez and Griezmann can tire out by the 70th minute because of their high-intensity roles. Bring on Angel Correa. He has that "Super Sub" feel every year—he’s small, fast, and turns on a dime.
- Use the "Shield": With players like Sorloth, the L2/LT shield button is vital. Hold the ball up, wait for the wingers to overlap, and then release.
Atletico Madrid FC 25 isn't the easiest team to master, but they are arguably the most rewarding for players who prefer a tactical, physical style of play. Master the Low Block, feed the big man up top, and let Griezmann work his magic in the pockets of space.