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ATLÉTICO MADRID

Argentina: Diego Simeone the people's choice for the job

Atlético's boss is believed to have a clause in his contract allowing him to leave for the Albiceleste - and an Olé poll says the fans want him.

Update:
Diego Pablo Simeone.
HandoutUEFA via Getty Images

Atlético Madrid boss Diego Simeone is the fans' favourite to succeed Gerardo 'Tata' Martino as Argentina coach, according to a poll conducted by one of the country's leading newspapers.

'Tata' Martino quits

Martino announced his resignation from the Albiceleste on Tuesday, just over a week after the side's penalty shoot-out defeat to Chile in the final of the Copa América Centenario - their second such loss to La Roja in as many years.

In a statement published on the Argentinian FA's official website, the former Barcelona coach said he was stepping down because of management disputes in the association and difficulties in getting a squad together in time for this summer's Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

Simeone has been in charge at Atlético since 2012.
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Simeone has been in charge at Atlético since 2012.

Simeone takes 32% of Olé vote

And in a survey carried out by the publication Olé asking who Argentina's supporters would like to replace Martino, Simeone comfortably came out on top.

Over 70,000 readers took part in a poll that saw Simeone - who is understood to have a clause in his Atleti contract allowing him to leave for his national team - scoop 32% of the votes cast.

Timing not right for 'El Cholo'

But Olé adds that while the 46-year-old is 'desperate' to coach Argentina one day, now isn't the right time: "He's out to carry on his successful career in Spain and then have his shot [at the job], which he knows will come."

New Lazio boss Marcelo Bielsa came in behind Simeone on 19%, while River Plate's Marcelo Gallardo was third with 12%.

Encuesta de Olé.
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Encuesta de Olé.Ole.com.arg