MY ACCOUNT
Diego Simeone appeared to contradict his previous remarks about his commitment to Atletico Madrid, stating that his future with the club will only become clear at the end of the season.
Atletico’s defeat in the Copa del Rey to Real Madrid on Thursday effectively ended their silverware prospects for the season, with the club fourth in LaLiga, 13 points behind leaders Barcelona, and also out of Europe.
Speaking after the defeat to Los Blancos, Simeone reaffirmed his commitment to Atleti, insisting he will not walk away of his own accord yet.
However, at his press conference ahead of Atleti’s LaLiga visit to Osasuna on Sunday, Simeone suggested a decision on his future will depend on how Atleti finish the season.
Asked if he intended to continue with the club, Simeone said: “It is more complex than what you suggest. They [the club] will find out when the season ends what will happen.
“My contract depends a lot on how we finish the season. Every season finale we get together to see how we continue. This year will not be the exception.”
Atleti have failed to win any of their past three league games on the road, after winning seven of the previous eight such games in the competition.
Given that poor run of form, they could perhaps not have asked for a better opponent to face on Sunday as they bid to get their season back on track.
Atleti have been victorious on their past four visits to Osasuna, scoring at least three goals in each of those wins.
Despite the quick turnaround after Thursday’s defeat, Simeone has no doubt his players will be in good shape for the clash at El Sadar Stadium.
“We do it as a way of life,” he added. “When one gives everything like the other day, you stay peaceful. You do what you have to do. It is the way of understanding life. I am at peace and have the tranquillity of doing a great job.
“Now it’s a game against a rival who will be excited, with a very good coach, always competitive, always complex, with positive energy.”
