Diego Simeone has confirmed he will remain Atlético Madrid’s manager for the 2026-27 season, as he looks to bring a fresh approach to the upcoming campaign.
“If I’m being honest, I’m thinking about next season. I’m thinking about myself. I will continue, but I’m thinking about how to approach a new season,” Simeone said.
The Argentine has been at the helm since 2011, making him one of Europe’s longest-serving top-flight coaches. During that time, he has delivered La Liga titles in 2014 and 2021, along with Europa League triumphs, despite occasional speculation about his future.
This latest announcement comes after earlier talk in 2026 of a possible exit, linked to a mutual contract break clause and the arrival of new majority owners Apollo Sports Capital.
Simeone has been the defining figure in Atlético’s modern era. When he took over, the club was in a difficult spot—financially shaky, hovering around mid-table in La Liga, and lacking consistent elite status despite a high wage bill. Under his guidance, Atlético have transformed into a regular challenger both domestically and in Europe, while building financial strength and a strong, clear identity.
He remains the most successful manager in the club’s history, with two La Liga titles (2013–14 and 2020–21) that broke the Real Madrid–Barcelona dominance. The 2013–14 campaign, in which they conceded just 26 goals, is still regarded as one of the standout coaching achievements in modern football. Simeone has also secured two UEFA Europa League titles (2012 and 2018), two UEFA Super Cups (2012 and 2018), one Copa del Rey (2013), and one Supercopa de España (2014). His teams have reached the UEFA Champions League final twice, finishing as runners-up in 2014 and 2016.
This season, Atlético sit fourth in La Liga with 20 wins, 6 draws and 10 losses, which has already guaranteed them a Champions League spot for next year. They reached the Copa del Rey final, where Real Sociedad came out on top on penalties, and were knocked out by Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
