Atlético de Madrid will get its first preseason test on Wednesday in Majadahonda, and the most notable development is that Morten Hjulmand is set to make his debut against Getafe.
The closed-door friendly arrives after more than two weeks of work since Atlético began preparing for the 2026-2027 season on 13 July. It also gives Diego Simeone an early look at a squad that is still unfinished, with several players unavailable because of the 2026 World Cup and some signings not yet in place.
What Simeone is evaluating
Hjulmand’s first appearance is the immediate headline, but the match is also part of a wider evaluation process for Simeone. Atlético will use the game to start sorting out roles and availability, especially as the squad continues to take shape before the competitive season begins.
One of the key names to watch is Julián Alvarez, whose situation remains uncertain and makes him a major focus in the first preseason match. Atlético are still working through that broader picture while waiting for more of the group to return.
The schedule also explains why the friendly matters now. All World Cup finalists are set to rejoin Atlético de Madrid on 10 August, so the club is operating with a partial group for the time being. That leaves Wednesday's match as an important early checkpoint for the players who are available.
Getafe arrive with some minutes already in the bank
Getafe have already played three preseason friendlies before facing Atlético, drawing 1-1 with Reading, beating Tenerife 1-2 and drawing 0-0 with Valladolid. That means they arrive with a little more match rhythm, even if the game in Majadahonda will be behind closed doors.
For Atlético, the focus is less on the score and more on the first signs of how the pieces fit. Hjulmand's debut is the clearest new development, but the broader story is how Simeone begins to assess an unfinished squad before the season ramps up. The latest update on that process is also being tracked in Atlético Madrid Vs Getafe: Simeone uses first preseason test to start sorting an unfinished squad.
Wednesday's meeting in Majadahonda will not answer every question, but it should provide the first real look at how Atlético's new season plan is taking shape.
