In the aftermath of a shock Copa del Rey defeat, Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone hinted that he might not be in his position next year but has played down speculation he could leave. Simeone insisted that he does not take his job for granted, admitting he always has the feeling that he could be given the sack anytime.
The Argentine was appointed to the role in 2011 and will celebrate a decade in charge if he is still in the Atletico hot seat by December 23.
During his impressive tenure, he has overseen a very successful period in the club’s history, leading them to two Champions League finals, one league title and to the top of the table this term.
Yet despite all this, he actually hinted he could leave the club following the toally unexpected loss to Cornella in midweek.
“It is difficult to try to explain feelings when one expresses himself, it is normal for each person to interpret the message in their own way, I am always sincere. I always think they could sack me tomorrow,” he said on Friday.
“I live continuously with a game-by-game approach. You can interpret what you want. I already said at the press conference that I am very happy at Atletico Madrid, that we have come from a transitional year and that we are having a very good season in a difficult competition like La Liga.”
After the 1-0 loss in midweek, he had cast doubts on his future with the club.
“We’ll look for solutions next year if we’re here,” he said. “Football is very changeable, but you have to be open to all possibilities. We have to be open to whatever the club decides.”
The temporary setback aside, Atletico are enjoying a fine season as they lead the way in the Primera Division, with two points ahead of Real Madrid, and with two games in hand over their city rivals.
Next up for Atletico is a clash with Athletic Club on Saturday, although inclement weather threatens the match.
“Yesterday we were both able to train with the cold and snow, and we were able to prepare for the game,” the coach said.
“Today we could not and we are looking for alternatives to arrive in the best condition. The field will be in the best possible condition.”
A clash against Sevilla follows on Tuesday, after which Atletico will subsequently have nine days off.