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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.

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