Sir Alex Ferguson of the new era

On December 23, 2011, after a shock Copa del Rey exit at the hands of Segunda B side Albacete and with Atletico once again staring down the threat of relegation to the Segunda Division, Diego Simeone stepped in to rescue the club where he had become a legend, donning the number 14 jersey. The 14 years that followed would be filled with achievements that were both unprecedented and unimaginable.

Yet for the Rojiblancos, these remarkable years feel just like the beginning. The present and future at the Metropolitano are inseparable from El Cholo’s influence. While formal talks have not yet begun, Atletico’s management is considering extending the Argentine’s contract once more—potentially the ninth renewal—taking him through to 2027.

There’s no immediate urgency, but the intention is clear: this renewal is meant to happen, likely as one of the club’s priorities in 2026.

The club sees this as part of a broader long-term plan, built around key players with contracts running until 2030, including Julian Alvarez, Barrios, Baena, and Giuliano (whose commitment has already been verbally secured). This ambitious project is designed to continue with Simeone at the helm.

Indeed, the renewal and squad overhaul that began two summers ago—rejuvenating the team while maintaining leadership from veterans like Koke, Griezmann, Oblak, and Gimenez—cannot be separated from the presence of their iconic coach.

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Simeone is the figure who deepened the sense of belonging, banished any trace of complacency, and instilled the belief that nothing is impossible. Twice he has come within reach of Champions League glory, the final frontier of his mission, and he will keep striving relentlessly until that ultimate prize is secured.