David, Baena, Grimaldo, Giuliano and Cuti Romero power Atletico Madrid's LaLiga resurgence

Atletico Madrid have found a strong, ambitious version of themselves at a crucial stage of the season. Wins over Real Sociedad, Osasuna, Real Madrid and Alaves have lifted the team into second place in LaLiga, five points behind leaders Barcelona. The turnaround has been built on several individual displays that have transformed the side over the past four matchdays.

• Jonathan David has recorded three goals and two assists during the winning streak.
• Giuliano Simeone has played a decisive role in three recent goals.
• Alex Baena has two goals and one assist and has already beaten his numbers from last season.
• Alejandro Grimaldo has three goals and one assist since his tactical repositioning.
• Cuti Romero scored the winner against Alaves with a header.

What this winning run means for the LaLiga title race

The sequence of victories has put Atletico back in direct contention at the top of the table. After dropping points earlier in the season, Diego Simeone's side has put together four straight wins and can now look upward with real belief. The 3-0 win in San Sebastian, the 4-0 victory over Osasuna, the 2-1 result against Real Madrid and the 2-1 away success at Alaves show clear progress at both ends of the pitch.

Cuti Romero, defensive leadership and a winning goal

The Argentine center-back has taken command of Atletico's defense since joining the club. His first start came in the Champions League defeat to Liverpool, but from that point he has remained a key figure. In Vitoria he scored the decisive goal with a powerful header to secure all three points. His reliability at the back and growing threat in the opposition box have become essential.

We have been after him for two years. He also wanted to come for two years. The club made a big effort to sign him and he gives us what we need, what he has.

The revival of Alejandro Grimaldo on the left flank

The Spanish world champion full-back had a difficult start at Atletico. The defeat against Athletic Club placed him under scrutiny and he was left on the bench at Anfield. The turning point came when Simeone gave him more freedom to drift inside and take part in build-up play. Since then, Grimaldo has registered three goals and one assist in the last four league wins, with a growing influence on the attack.

I did not really know what the coach wanted from me. He has spoken to me and told me to play my game, what I have done throughout my career.

Jonathan David, an instant impact in front of goal

The Canadian international forward arrived on loan from Juventus in the final days of the summer transfer window. The deal includes a purchase option worth 25 million euros. His adaptation has been immediate: three goals and two assists in the four consecutive wins. He started the three most recent matches after opening his account from the bench against Real Sociedad.

Giuliano Simeone and his key role in a demanding period

In the derby against Real Madrid, his movement and reading of the game proved decisive. He won the penalty that led to the opening goal and to Dean Huijsen's red card, then assisted Jonathan David for the 2-0. He was also important at other moments of the season, including the 2-2 draw with Villarreal. Playing as a wing-back or winger depending on the game plan, his commitment has earned him a special place among the fans.

Alex Baena, from doubt to total conviction

His first season at Atletico fell well below expectations, and during the final six months he lost his place in Simeone's preferred lineup. Baena turned that period into a learning experience, and the World Cup helped him regain his rhythm. This season he has already surpassed his previous output: from two goals and three assists in 46 matches last term to four goals and two assists in just nine games this campaign. Against Alaves, his cross from the flank was headed home by Cuti Romero.

He delivers a great cross. He is an incredible player. He has started the season very well.

Frequently asked questions about Atletico Madrid's current form