Atletico Madrid's progression over the past few years has seen them rise from a collection of so-so players and those who never quite fulfilled their potential to a unit of genuine winners under Diego Simeone.
From back to front there are huge names, standout performers and real stars, some of whom have been in place throughout and others who are on the verge of being the next key name, the vital component to Atleti who continue to challenge for Liga and Champions League honours.
To be a star in a team who places more emphasis on the collective than the individual, players need key traits: non-stop work rate, diligence in positional work off the ball, tactical awareness and excellent stamina reserves—along with, of course, standout technical abilities in each respective area of the team.