Diego Simeone is set to remain at the helm of Atlético Madrid, at least until the end of the 2026/27 season, as reported by the newspaper AS. Despite recent speculation about a potential departure at the end of the current campaign, both the club and the Argentine coach have reached an agreement to extend their association for another year, dispelling any doubts about his future.
Sources within the Colchoneros reportedly confirmed that neither party will activate the clause that would have allowed for contract termination. The continuity of the 55-year-old Argentine will not be affected by the Apollo group's entry into the club's capital, with the plans outlined by the board remaining intact.
With this decision, clubs interested in the coach's services, such as Inter Milan, will have to wait. El Cholo's focus is entirely on the upcoming sporting challenges, particularly the triple clash with Barcelona in the Champions League and the pursuit of the Copa del Rey, a competition that, in 2013, marked a turning point for Atleti.
The sporting directorate, led by Bucero and Alemany, is already planning for the 2026/27 season with Simeone at the helm, as he prepares for his 16th consecutive year leading the team. The coach is aware of the moves to strengthen the squad, demonstrating full alignment with the club's structure. While the immediate priority is to win the Copa del Rey and attempt to overcome the Catalans in the Champions League, it is anticipated that, at the end of the season, the club and coach will discuss a possible contract extension beyond 2027. However, the Spanish newspaper assures that this possibility will be evaluated later and without haste.
Simeone is the most decorated coach in Atlético Madrid's history, boasting eight trophies: two La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, one Spanish Super Cup, two Europa Leagues, and two UEFA Super Cups. Since 2011, he has managed the team in 786 matches, with a record of 465 wins, 170 draws, and 151 losses.
The Argentine's arrival radically transformed the club. With the exception of his first half-season, Atlético has consistently qualified for the Champions League, a feat that has become commonplace under his leadership. Although Simeone has previously expressed a desire to one day coach Inter and the Argentine national team, all parties agree that his cycle with the Rojiblancos is not yet complete.