Simeone: "I like my job, and I'm committed to Atlético"
Atlético de Madrid potentially said farewell to four players in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Levante but Diego Simeone is excited about the future.
Diego Simeone eased any fan fears he might leave Atético de Madrid as part of their expected exodus. Atlético look set for arguably their most important transfer window since Simeone returned to the club as coach in 2011, with numerous key players departing.
Wholesale clear-out
Juanfran, Diego Godín and Filipe Luis are expected to leave on free transfers and Lucas Hernández will join Bayern Munich; Vitolo, Santiago Arias and Rodri could move on to gain more playing time while Thomas Partey and Saúl Ñiguez have received offers but will likely stay on.
To make matters worse, star forward Antoine Griezmann also announced his intention to leave the club despite only signing a new contract last year. With several major European clubs set to change coaches, Simeone had been suggested as a potential target for some, though he insists he is not about to jump ship.
El Cholo staying with Atleti
Speaking after Tuesday's 2-1 friendly defeat to Beitar Jerusalem, Simeone said: "I like my job, I feel very identified and committed to the club. I know that year on year it's always more difficult and that makes us see our real selves and generate enthusiasm. Next season there will be football players who will arrive with great enthusiasm and hopefully adapt to the responsibility that means being at Atlético."