Football BaBe
- Commends Simeone’s straightforwardness in last discussions
- Criticizes deceptive statistics within the organization
- Insists on silverware following €400m outlay
Saul’s Wake-Up Call: Atletico Madrid Must Conquer La Liga and Champions League
As Atletico Madrid gears up for a pivotal season, ex-midfielder Saul delivers a candid critique, urging the club to leverage their massive investments and chase top honors without delay. With recent summer signings bolstering the squad, the pressure is on Diego Simeone to transform potential into triumphs across domestic and European fronts.
Reflections on a Storied Tenure at Atletico Madrid
In a revealing chat on COPE’s El Partidazo, Saul, who recently transferred to Flamengo in Brazil, looked back on his extensive 13-year journey with Atletico. He emphasized that the team now lacks any justification for falling short in the race for significant titles this term.
Summer Reinforcements and Rising Ambitions
Atletico has been active in the transfer market, bringing in talents like Alex Baena, David Hancko, Johnny Cardoso, and Matteo Ruggeri. Rumors also swirl around potential deals for Stuttgart’s Enzo Millot and Napoli’s Giacomo Raspadori. Club president Enrique Cerezo has publicly pushed Simeone to secure victories in the Champions League, La Liga, and Copa del Rey.
The Push for Domestic and European Dominance
Following substantial spending in consecutive summers, Saul argues that the Madrid-based outfit should now rival powerhouses like Barcelona and Real Madrid for league supremacy while aiming for continental success. He noted, “Excuses are running thin for them. They invested 200 million last year and matched that this summer. The landscape has shifted-they’re matching the expenditures of rivals and must vie for every accolade. The previous season wasn’t a total failure; they were in contention but fell short. If Simeone’s guidance still inspires the squad, his era could extend far.”
Insights into Saul’s Bond with Diego Simeone
Saul opened up about his fluctuating dynamic with Simeone, highlighting the coach’s candor amid his loan stint at Sevilla. “Our connection had its highs and lows, yet he remained genuine, unlike some phony elements in the club. As a leader, he kept a certain reserve, but his words were always direct. During our final talk at Sanchez-Pizjuan, he made it clear I wasn’t in his plans ahead. It turned out to be a positive exchange-I didn’t react with resentment, contrary to expectations.”
Navigating Internal Challenges and Future Prospects
These comments from Saul highlight underlying tensions and prompt discussions on Simeone’s ability to adapt strategies and foster team spirit in this critical phase. With over €400 million spent in recent windows-surpassing many European clubs’ budgets, according to 2024 Transfermarkt data-Atletico faces a defining moment to reestablish themselves among the continent’s elite.
