Simeone confirms plans to return to Serie A and talks Inter lesson

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone confirmed he ‘intends to return to Italy’ in the near future and spoke about the lesson learnt from the recent win over Inter.

The expert Argentine tactician spent six months of his coaching career in Italy from January to June 2011, enjoying a brief but memorable spell at Catania. He has been linked with a return to Serie A over the years, with possible destinations including his former clubs Inter and Lazio.

Simeone has far exceeded expectations with Atletico Madrid over the last decade and pulled off another impressive result in the Champions League Round of 16 this term, guiding his side to a tight win over competition hopefuls Inter.

Simeone on Inter win and Serie A return

Speaking to the press via Calciomercato.com ahead of Atletico’s Champions League quarter-final clash with Borussia Dortmund, Simeone first discussed the lesson he learnt from the win over Inter.

“The match against Inter made us understand that we have the strength to continue in this difficult competition, against the top eight.”

He spoke about the importance of Antoine Griezmann.

“Griezmann is the most important player we have, the team revolves around his qualities and he knows that we need him.”

Finally, Simeone was asked about the idea of returning to Italy one day.

“I have a contract (until 2027 ed.) here for the next few years, so I can’t give a date, but I intend to return to Italy, because I felt good and at Catania I learnt a lot as a coach.”