Atletico Madrid News
Former Chelsea boss learning Spanish; Atletico Madrid touted as a possible future destination
Journalist Christian Falk has confirmed that former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is learning Spanish and his next destination could be either Atletico Madrid or Barcelona.
Tuchel, 49, was relieved of his duty by Chelsea in September 2022 after reportedly falling out with the new owners with Todd Boehly reportedly describing him as a ‘nightmare’ to work with.
Interestingly enough, despite the fallout, he departed Chelsea with a record 60 wins, 24 draws, and 16 defeats in 100 games. He ended his tenure with an impressive win percentage of 60%.
The German tactician has been out of a job since and while there have been several rumours floating, nothing substantial has panned out so far. And now, if Falk is to be believed, the German has been learning Spanish in order to prepare himself for a new job in La Liga.
Atletico Madrid are touted as one of the possible destinations for Tuchel, following their dodgy start to the season under Diego Simeone. There is a feeling that Los Rojiblancos have reached the end of a cycle with the Argentine and a change could be made in the near future.
It must be noted that Tuchel is not the only manager linked with Atletico Madrid, as it was not long ago that former Spain and Barcelona boss Luis Enrique was asked about the role.
As reported before, the 52-year-old responded to the links where he mentioned if the team from the capital city does make an approach, he will think about it.
“Hey, they have to love me, this is the usual. If they don’t call me… If I don’t have offers, I can’t decide. I don’t have any offers at the moment,” Enrique said.
At the same time, the comments made by Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin on Enrique only fueled the rumours further.
“I like him a lot personally and professionally. I think he has the talent to coach any team in our league. It’s clear that he adds value for everyone. For the media, for the players and for the clubs because he delivers. I think it’s good,” he added.
Simeone’s contract with Atletico Madrid runs until the summer of 2024. So, it remains to be seen if the club are prepared to part ways with the legendary figure before that and if they do, Tuchel and Enrique are likely to be at the top of their shortlist to take over.
Atletico Madrid News
Atletico Madrid among clubs weighing up a summer move for €20 million Barcelona defender
Having successfully raided FC Barcelona for the signing of Memphis Depay during the January transfer window, Atletico Madrid could look to bring in another player from Spotify Camp Nou come summer.
Indeed, according to SPORT, Atletico are among clubs who are interested in signing Barcelona ace Sergino Dest, who is currently away on loan at AC Milan.
Dest has been out of favour at Barça since Xavi Hernandez arrived at the club back in November 2021. The USMNT right-back was sent out on loan to Milan last summer so that he can play regularly.
The Rossoneri have the option of signing the ex-Ajax man permanently for €20 million, but are unlikely to take it up as the right-back has largely underwhelmed during his time in Italy, playing just 14 games in all competitions.
But, that has seemingly not deterred clubs in La Liga, including Atletico Madrid, who are reportedly willing to take a punt on Dest in the summer.
As things stand, Atletico have Nahuel Molina as their primary right-back, but the Argentine has not been consistent enough in his debut season at the club.
Matt Doherty arrived on a free transfer from Tottenham in January but has only played 12 minutes so far, indicating where he stands in Diego Simeone’s scheme. So, a new right-back might not entirely be ruled out at the Civitas Metropolitano come summer.
Dest, though, is also attracting interest from Sevilla, Valencia and Villarreal, while an unnamed MLS club also want the right-back.
Barcelona, for their part, wish to recoup the €20 million they spent on him almost three years ago, which could become a roadblock for Atletico Madrid if they do indeed pursue the right-back with greater intent.
As things stand, there is just initial interest and there is nothing concrete from Atletico or any clubs. Only time will tell if that changes once Dest returns from his loan spell.
