History of Álex Baena in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: July 19, 2026

Álex Baena is a professional Spanish footballer who currently plays as a midfielder for Villarreal CF. Known for his creative vision, technical skill, and ability to contribute both goals and assists, he has established himself as a prominent playmaker in La Liga. A product of the Villarreal youth academy, Baena has undergone significant development, including a successful loan spell at Girona FC, which helped refine his tactical versatility. His performances have earned him international recognition, leading to his debut for the Spanish national team. Baena is widely regarded as one of La Liga’s most influential young talents, consistently demonstrating a high work rate and an adeptness at operating in tight spaces. Despite his young age, he has become a cornerstone of Villarreal's midfield, frequently impacting matches with his set-piece delivery and clever movement in the final third.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

14 September 2019: Professional debut for Villarreal reserves

On 14 September 2019, Álex Baena made his starting debut for the Villarreal reserves in the Segunda División B, contributing to a 3–0 victory against Llagostera.

2 July 2025: Transfer to Atlético Madrid

On 2 July 2025, Álex Baena officially joined the football club Atlético Madrid by signing a five-year contract.

July 2001: Birth of Alejandro Baena Rodríguez

Alejandro Baena Rodríguez, widely known as Álex Baena, was born in July 2001 in Spain. He is a professional footballer who plays as a midfielder.

Others born on this day/year

2011: Joined Villarreal Youth Setup

In 2011, Álex Baena joined the youth academy of Villarreal CF after transferring from Roquetas.

December 2018: Senior Debut for Villarreal C

On 21 December 2018, Álex Baena made his professional senior debut for the Villarreal C-team during a 2–0 victory against Rayo Ibense in the Tercera División.

2018: 2018 UEFA European Under-17 Championship Participation

In 2018, Álex Baena participated in the UEFA European Under-17 Championship as part of the Spanish national youth setup.

November 2020: First professional goal

On 5 November 2020, Álex Baena scored his first professional goal for Villarreal during a 4-0 UEFA Europa League victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv.

August 2021: Loan move to Girona

On 19 August 2021, Baena joined the Segunda División side Girona on a one-year loan deal to gain further professional experience.

August 2022: Promotion to the first team

On 26 August 2022, Álex Baena and his teammate Nicolas Jackson were officially promoted to the main squad at Villarreal.

August 2023: First senior national team call-up

In August 2023, Álex Baena received his inaugural call-up to the Spain senior national team by manager Luis de la Fuente to participate in the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying matches.

2023: La Liga top assist provider

During the 2023–24 season, Baena distinguished himself by becoming the top assist provider in La Liga, recording a total of 14 assists.

2023: 2023 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Runner-up

In 2023, Baena was called up to the Spanish under-21 team for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship, where the team finished as runners-up.

May 2024: Selection for UEFA Euro 2024 squad

In May 2024, Álex Baena was officially included in the 26-man squad representing Spain at the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.

July 2024: Spain U23 Olympic Selection and Gold Medal Victory

In July 2024, Álex Baena was named to the Spain U23 squad for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. During the gold medal match against France, he successfully scored a goal from a free kick, contributing to Spain's 5-3 victory after extra time.