The current international break was shaping up to be a quiet one for Marcos Llorente, but perhaps not entirely. The versatile player, capable of operating as a full-back, defensive midfielder, central midfielder, forward, and even a central defender, voluntarily retired from the national team after winning the World Cup. He's now enjoying a few days of rest after a summer filled with celebrations and joy. He is one of the few players who reached the pinnacle in the USA not on Luis de la Fuente's squad for the match against England, and the only one absent by his own choice.
While Llorente is focused on the present, his family, and relaxation, interesting news regarding him has emerged from Germany: Bayern Munich is closely monitoring his situation. Despite his national team retirement, he is only 31 years old and performs at an exceptional level every season. A key factor is that his contract expires in June 2027, meaning he will be free to negotiate and sign with any other club for the following season starting in January. This interest is no coincidence – Bayern is a European football giant, bolstering its ambition to once again contend for the Champions League, and could make a serious financial offer, according to "As" newspaper.
However, Llorente is a unique footballer. He is guided by his feelings, his current state, and his mood. He leads a lifestyle that, as he himself has admitted, he wouldn't be able to maintain in England, for example. The player has repeatedly stated that he will not artificially prolong his career (he has even hinted at retirement in 2030) and stepped away from the world's best national team to prioritize his physical condition.
At Atlético, there's a sense of calm. The club is working on renewing his contract and relies on a player with increasing influence in the dressing room. He is one of the captains following the departures of Griezmann and Giménez and is among the great symbols of "Cholismo." With Koke and Oblak as the only more experienced players in the squad, Llorente could finish his career at the club as the first captain.
This is his eighth season at Atlético, where he has played 308 matches and is one of the players most strongly identified with the club and who values his lifestyle in Madrid.