*This content was translated by AI.
Diego Simeone (56), who has led Atletico Madrid for 15 years, may step down at the end of this season. This is a major variable that could also affect Lee Kang-in (25), who joined the team this summer and has been performing brilliantly.
Nacho Palencia, a Spanish football insider who appeared on Spain's 'Marca' radio broadcast recently, claimed, "There is a 50 to 60% chance that this season will be Simeone's last as coach."
Simeone's contract with Atletico Madrid expires next summer. According to reports, his future is more likely to be decided by his own choice rather than the club dismissing him. The team's performance this season is expected to have a significant impact. Additionally, the presence of Apollo Global Management, which has recently become the new club owner, is also cited as a variable in contract renewal negotiations.
Appointed in December 2011, Coach Simeone has led AT Madrid to two La Liga titles and two UEFA Europa League (UEL) championships, establishing the club as one of Spain's "top three." However, since winning the La Liga title in the 2020–2021 season, he has not lifted a major trophy in six years, leading to calls for a turning point.
The possibility of Simeone leaving could directly impact the team's newly restructured roster this season, especially Lee Kang-in. Simeone personally selected Lee Kang-in as Antoine Griezmann's successor after Griezmann moved to Orlando City SC, showing strong trust in him. During his visit to Korea last summer, he also highly praised Lee Kang-in's diligence and ability to adapt to the team.
Lee Kang-in has responded to the coach's expectations by recording one goal and one assist in the first three matches of the season. However, if Simeone leaves at the end of this season, significant changes are expected across the board for Lee Kang-in and other players, as well as in team tactics.
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*This content was translated by AI.
