ATLETICO MADRID are nearing a decision on sacking Diego Simeone following a difficult start to the season, according to reports in Spain.
Sunday’s defeat to Barcelona left Los Colchoneros six points off the top of La Liga with both leaders possessing a game in hand.
Diego Simeone is reportedly facing the sack from Atletico MadridCredit: Getty – Contributor
The coach, who won the league with Atleti in 2014, has been keen to point towards this campaign as one of transition after Antoine Griezmann and Diego Godin left but considerable reinvestment has led to expectations remaining high.
And Marca write of Simeone and Atletico facing a “divorce on the horizon” unless results improve quickly.
Since Griezmann’s exit, goals have been hard to come by.
Only Alvaro Morata has registered more than twice in La Liga with Thomas Lemar and Diego Costa disappointing in particular.
Speaking after the 1-0 loss to Barcelona, inflicted late on by Lionel Messi, Simeone claimed: “Change will come and, instead of hitting the post, the ball will go in.
“We have to stay patient and know that we’re in a year of transition.”
The notion of transition is said to be irking boardroom bosses and there is said to be something of a split in opinion at the top of the club.
But, on Wednesday, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo appeared to agree that more time was needed.
He told El Transistor: “There are many new players and they are adjusting, but we are only two games away from the top of the league.”
Simeone departing would no doubt interest Arsenal as they seek a replacement for Unai Emery.
Top choices Mikel Arteta and Brendan Rodgers are in employment while Carlo Ancelotti is another possible name teetering on the brink of being sacked.
Arsenal legends want Gunners hero Patrick Vieira to replace Unai Emery
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
