After over a decade of intense passion, tactical brilliance, and unforgettable triumphs, Diego Simeone’s time at Atlético Madrid appears to be drawing to a close.
Reports from Spain suggest that a quiet yet significant shift is underway at the club, with new sporting director Carlos Busero reportedly working behind the scenes to identify Simeone’s successor.
As Atlético grapples with underwhelming results in recent seasons, this marks a pivotal moment for the club. The departure of Andrea Berta and the arrival of Busero have seemingly altered the dynamics within Atlético’s management, bringing Simeone’s previously untouchable status into question.
Diego Simeone is undoubtedly a legend at Atlético Madrid. Since taking over in December 2011, he has transformed the club, leading them to two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, and two UEFA Europa League triumphs.
Under his guidance, Atlético established themselves as one of Europe’s elite teams, challenging the duopoly of Real Madrid and Barcelona.
However, the magic appears to be fading. The 2024 season has highlighted Atlético’s struggles to remain competitive at the highest level.
Their performances in La Liga and the Champions League have fallen short of expectations, raising questions about whether Simeone can still deliver the success fans have come to expect.
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Carlos Busero, who replaced Andrea Berta as Atlético’s sporting director earlier this year, has wasted no time in reshaping the club’s structure and strategy. According to reports, Busero is keen on a financial and tactical reset, with Simeone’s departure seen as a cornerstone of this transformation.
One of the key factors driving this shift is Simeone’s astronomical salary, the highest among football coaches globally at €32.2 million per year. Busero reportedly views this as unsustainable, especially given the team’s recent struggles. A change in leadership could save the club over €15 million annually, allowing for a more balanced financial approach.
Busero’s cost-cutting measures have already been evident. Over the summer, he facilitated the departures of high-earning players such as Mario Hermoso, Stefan Savić, Álvaro Morata, and Memphis Depay. By reducing expenses and regaining control over key decisions, Busero is steering Atlético toward a leaner and more efficient operational model.
The Search for Simeone’s Successor
While no official announcements have been made, one name has emerged as a strong candidate to replace Simeone: Marcelino García Toral. Currently managing Villarreal, Marcelino has a proven track record in La Liga and previously worked with Busero during their time at Valencia.
Marcelino has expressed his readiness to take on a major challenge. In a recent interview, he said:
“I have the capacity to coach in Madrid, Barcelona, or Atlético, but these clubs often prefer coaches with lots of trophies or former players.”
His contract with Villarreal runs until 2026, but his relationship with Busero could pave the way for his appointment at Atlético. Marcelino’s tactical acumen, combined with his experience in managing top-flight teams, makes him an appealing choice as the club looks to rebuild.
Simeone’s potential departure represents the end of an era for Atlético Madrid. As the second-longest-serving coach in Europe’s top five leagues, his impact on the club’s identity and success is unparalleled. However, the growing disconnect between his results and the club’s ambitions has made change inevitable.
General Director Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has reportedly taken a backseat in this transition, leaving Busero with the autonomy to shape Atlético’s future. Whether it’s Marcelino or another candidate, the next head coach will inherit a team in need of revitalization but with ample potential.
The Financial Implications
Simeone’s departure would not only bring tactical changes but also significant financial relief. Lowering the head coach’s salary aligns with Busero’s broader strategy of financial sustainability. This approach ensures that Atlético remains competitive without jeopardizing long-term stability.
Additionally, reallocating resources could strengthen other areas of the team, addressing gaps that have hindered Atlético’s performances in recent seasons.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
For many Atlético fans, the thought of life without Simeone is bittersweet. While his tenure has been filled with unforgettable moments, there is growing recognition that the club needs fresh ideas to compete at the highest level. A new head coach brings the promise of innovation, but also the challenge of living up to Simeone’s legacy.
Fans will also expect transparency from the club as it navigates this transition. The handling of Simeone’s departure and the announcement of his successor will play a crucial role in maintaining the support and trust of the Atlético faithful.
