“?Diego Simeone has claimed that he could extend his stay as Atletico Madrid manager past its expiry date in 2018, despite rumours linking him with Inter Milan.
The Argentine has been in charge at the Vicent Calderon stadium for over five seasons now, and has secured one La Liga title, a Copa Del Rey triumph, a Europa League success and finished as runners-up in the Champions League on two occasions.
Despite that success, however, Simeone saw his current deal reduced by two years to the summer of 2018 this season – a move that led to speculation over his long-term future with the Spanish outfit.
In an interview with “?beIN Sports, though, the 45-year-old revealed that he could be swayed into staying with Atletico longer than anticipated.
He said: “What happened with the contract was about what I thought was best for Atletico Madrid.
“Everyone always says that possibly I will leave in a year and a half, and what the fans might think of that. But I could also extend the contract. The media are very skilful at creating controversies, which is fine, it must be accepted, and maybe you should answer better so it does not happen.”
Simeone’s name has been linked with the managerial hotseat at Serie A club Inter Milan ever since his comments in the aftermath of Atletico’s Champions League defeat to city rivals Real Madrid back in May.
He was installed as favourite to take over at the San Siro following the sacking of Frank de Boer in November, but those rumours were put to bed after Stefano Pioli was handed the reins instead.
Simeone’s son Giovanni, who plies his trade with Genoa, added fuel to the fire by stating his belief that the former Nerazzurri star would one day become Inter’s new boss, but Simeone insisted that he would not comment on the media speculation linking him with the job, before adding that he would only leave Atletico if the club decided it was in their best interests to part ways with him.
Diego Simeone drops a hint about where his next contract will be – https://t.co/qfLCc4fMsh pic.twitter.com/YKoviUOOX7
He said: “They asked my sister did she think that someday I would coach in Italy, and she said it could happen, it would not be strange.
“They asked my son one day at a Genoa versus Inter game and he said it could happen someday.
“I have chosen not to speak any more, especially as the results of the team are not great. The important thing for the Atletico fans are the facts. Words come and go, but facts show you the real person. When I leave here it will be because it is good for the club.”
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