Atletico Madrid News
Diego Simeone set for historic achievement ahead of Atletico Madrid ve Sevilla
It is difficult to find managers committed to the same club for more than a couple of seasons in today’s world. Concurrently, it is equally difficult to come across clubs having patience with the same man on the sidelines through the highs and lows.
That understanding and connection is what makes the bond between Diego Simeone and Atletico de Madrid special. Come Saturday, the Argentine tactician will set a truly remarkable record as the manager who has overseen the most number of games for Atletico Madrid.
The record currently sits with Luis Aragones who coached the Rojiblancos through 612 games. Against Sevilla, Cholo will reach the magical number of 613.
Simeone took control at the helm for Atletico Madrid in December 2011. At the time, the Rojiblancos were going through a rough patch with subpar results and disappointing performances.
The Argentine came as the guiding light for the club. Through his pioneering transfers and controversial style of play, Simeone revolutionised and revived Atletico Madrid and brought them back onto the European picture.
Although he has been unable to taste European glory with his side, the world remembers how he was just seconds away from lifting the elusive title against arch-rivals Real Madrid in 2014.
The manager has come under fire in recent seasons, for it appears that his team are slowly regressing in quality. This season too, the Colchoneros sit 17 points behind league leaders Barcelona and finished in fourth place in their UEFA Champions League group.
Yet, the message from the management is clear- that the confidence in Simeone is complete. It remains to be seen if the Argentine continues past the summer, but even if he does, it will be as the most successful manager in the club’s history.
Sofyan Amrabat is a player in demand, with the midfielder reportedly a top target for various clubs during the January transfer window, as confirmed by his brother.
However, Atletico Madrid are also keeping tabs on the Moroccan international, with the club said to be interested in bringing him to Wanda Metropolitano.
According to Foot Mercato, Amrabat is keen on moving to La Liga, and Atletico Madrid are one of the clubs that he admires. The midfielder had previously praised Atleti boss Diego Simeone, further fueling speculation of a potential move to the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Amrabat comes in the midst of uncertainty over the future of Axel Witsel.
The Fiorentina star could be a possible replacement for the Belgian midfielder, whose contract at the club expires at the end of the season, with his father hinting at a possible exit.
However, Atleti would face competition from Barcelona in the pursuit of Amrabat, who appears to be prioritising a move to Camp Nou. The Moroccan international could potentially become an excellent alternative for Barça’s top target, Martin Zubimendi.
However, Fiorentina is unlikely to let the midfielder go cheaply, and Barcelona would have to sort out their economic situation to afford him.
That is where Atletico Madrid might look to get ahead of the Catalans. Although the Spanish giants are also struggling with finances, they may still be able to swoop in and secure the services of the Fiorentina star come the end of the season.
It is too early to deduce anything just yet. A lot will be uncovered as we enter the final phase of the season. Amrabat himself will be keen on making a definitive decision on his future, as he looks to take the next step in his career.
