Atletico Madrid News
Luis Enrique responds to Atletico Madrid job links: “They have to love me”
Luis Enrique is on the managerial market after he stepped down from the Spanish national team following their Round of 16 exit in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
The 52-year-old had done a solid job during his time with La Roja but could not lead them to any trophy or title during his reign and eventually made way for Luis de la Fuente, who has now taken over the reins.
Enrique appeared on Ibai Llanos Twitch stream last night during which he discussed his managerial future, confirming that he would be interested in taking up a coaching role with a club rather than a national team.
Not long ago, the former Barcelona and Spain boss had been linked with the Atletico Madrid job.
There have been question marks over Diego Simeone following Los Rojiblancos’ poor start to the season which has seen them get eliminated from the UEFA Champions League, while failing to qualify for the Europa League as well.
There is a feeling that the club’s cycle under the Argentine tactician is nearing an end and Enrique has been touted as a replacement for El Cholo.
In fact, Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin recently spoke highly of Enrique in an interview, saying (h/t Mundo Deportivo): “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.”
And, Enrique responded to the links with Atletico Madrid during the Twitch chat with Ibai Llanos, stating that he is yet to receive any offer from the Colchoneros and he cannot decide unless they make an approach first.
“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.
The 52-year-old tasted great success during his last club assignment as the manager of FC Barcelona. Whether he ends up taking over at the Civitas Metropolitano remains to be seen, although Simeone still has a contract with Atletico Madrid until the summer of 2024.
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.
