Alvaro Morata Reflects On Regret Over Leaving Atletico Madrid For AC Milan

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Alvaro Morata has expressed regret over his decision to leave Atletico Madrid for AC Milan last summer. Despite finding success with Galatasaray this season, he reflects on his choices. Morata initially joined Atletico on loan from Chelsea in the 2019-20 season and later made the move permanent. However, he was immediately loaned to Juventus.

Upon returning to Madrid in 2022, Morata played 154 matches across all competitions during his two spells at the club. He scored 58 goals and provided 14 assists for Atletico. His most productive stint was with Juventus, where he contributed to 98 goals, scoring 59 and assisting 39.

After leading Spain in the European Championships, where he scored once, Morata returned to Serie A with Milan for the 2024-25 season. However, he struggled there, scoring only six goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. This led to a loan move to Galatasaray, where he regained his form.

Morata has openly discussed his mental health struggles before. Last year, he revealed that he nearly left the national team due to depression and panic attacks. Reflecting on his decisions, Morata told Cadena SER radio: "In the summer, I should have thought about things more... You can't change it. You have to move forward."

Morata is optimistic about his future with Galatasaray and hopes they win the league to secure a spot in the Champions League next year. He acknowledges that Turkey might seem less competitive but values the Champions League experience.

"With hindsight for sure I wouldn't have taken [the decision]... At Atletico there were more people who loved me," Morata admitted. He is currently part of Spain's squad for this week's Nations League quarter-finals against the Netherlands.

Chasing Records with Spain

If Morata scores twice over these two legs, he'll surpass Fernando Torres (38) as Spain's third-highest scorer. Only Raul (44) and David Villa (59) have netted more for Spain. His performance at Euro 2024 could have brought him closer to second place sooner.

Morata had considered staying at Atletico before changing his mind and moving to Milan. "When you're in a difficult moment... you don't see things clearly," he said about making decisions during challenging times.

The Spaniard felt pressured by his uncertain club future during Euro 2024 but saw an opportunity at Milan arise. "You need to feel wanted and valued," he explained while acknowledging that coach Cholo Simeone also valued him.

Spain will face the Netherlands in Rotterdam on Thursday before playing the return leg in Valencia on Sunday.