In a recent interview with ESPN, Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone expressed his understanding of Jurgen Klopp's decision to leave Liverpool. Simeone, who has been at the helm of Atlético since 2011, acknowledged the continuous struggle that comes with managing a club. He emphasized the importance of energy and how it can be a breaking point for coaches.
Klopp made headlines last week when he announced his departure from Liverpool at the end of the season. Citing a lack of energy after eight and a half years with the Premier League giants, Klopp's decision shed light on the challenges that managers face on a daily basis.
Simeone resonated with Klopp's sentiment, explaining that the role of a manager demands repetition, constant effort, and the ability to initiate change within a team. He recognized the need to transition from experienced players to younger talents, a process that requires letting go of familiar faces. Time passes for both Simeone and those around him, so he comprehends the significance of energy as a crucial factor in the decision-making process.
Currently sitting third in LaLiga, Simeone's Atlético Madrid is ten points behind league leaders Real Madrid and on par with fourth-placed Barcelona. Throughout his twelve-year tenure at the club, Simeone has established Atlético as a formidable contender alongside the Spanish giants, winning two league titles in 2014 and 2021 and reaching two Champions League finals.
When asked about the most challenging aspect of management, Simeone pointed to the immense responsibility that comes with the job. He highlighted the post-match uncertainty, where he often questions whether his happiness stems from the victory itself or the temporary relief from the weight of responsibility. High standards and expectations form the basis of his role, leaving no margin for error. The Argentine coach takes personal accountability for ensuring the team's success, acknowledging that the majority of the responsibility lies on his shoulders. In fact, when asked about his happiest moments, Simeone admitted that it's when he can finally retreat into the peace of sleep, free from the constant demands of others.
Despite his accomplishments, Simeone revealed that he is not yet ready to explore the realm of managing a national team. Despite frequent links to the Argentina job, he expressed contentment with his current routine and passion for competition. He enjoys the day-to-day challenges, the opportunity to help players improve, engage in lively discussions, and incorporate individuals who may initially appear as misfits into the team's overall dynamic. Simeone finds fulfillment in this hands-on approach and feels happiest when immersed in the intricacies of club management.
During the interview, Simeone also took the time to praise Atlético Madrid's Antoine Griezmann, hailing him as one of the best players in the world at present. Griezmann has been in exceptional form this season, contributing 11 goals and six assists in LaLiga. Simeone acknowledged the abundance of extraordinary footballers, mentioning the likes of Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappé, but asserted that Griezmann's performances make him stand out among his peers.
Additionally, Simeone lauded the rise of Girona, who unexpectedly emerged as title contenders in LaLiga this season. He acknowledged their intelligent manager, Míchel, and the excellent work he has been doing with the team. Simeone recognized Girona's improvement in defensive solidity, highlighting their reduction in the number of goals conceded. He expressed his admiration for their ability to challenge the dominance of perennial winners Barcelona and Real Madrid, stating that it would be wonderful for Spanish football to witness the rise of another team following Atlético's footsteps.
Diego Simeone's understanding of the demanding nature of club management and his admiration for fellow managers like Jurgen Klopp provide insight into the challenges faced by those in the industry. As Atlético Madrid continues to compete at the highest level, Simeone's focus on energy and responsibility remains central to his approach, aiming to propel his team to further success in the years to come.
