A sensational rumor from Spain is shaking the football world, as Diego “Cholo” Simeone is reportedly preparing to end his legendary 15-year tenure at Atletico Madrid.
According to El Chiringuito, the Argentine manager has reached a “pre-agreement” to take over at Inter Milan for the 2026/27 season.
The “Cholo” Bombshell
While Simeone is under contract until 2027, the whispers of an early exit have gained massive traction over the last 24 hours.
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The Claim: Spanish media outlets suggest Simeone feels his cycle at the Metropolitano has naturally reached its end. His deep emotional connection to Inter, where he played from 1997 to 1999, makes San Siro his “destined” next stop.
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The Agreement: El Chiringuito reports that the foundations for a deal are already in place, despite Cristian Chivu currently leading Inter to a dominant 10-point lead in Serie A.
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The Catch: Italian sources remain skeptical, noting that Inter’s management is thrilled with Chivu’s “perfect” domestic campaign. However, Simeone has never hidden his ambition, famously stating in late 2025: “I can imagine myself managing Inter one day… I think it will happen.”
Tension in Madrid
The news comes at a critical moment for Atletico. Reports from Goal and Fichajes suggest a “cooling” relationship between Simeone and the club’s new ownership group, Apollo, who reportedly want to modernize the club’s sporting direction.
UCL Battle: Club Brugge
Despite the noise, Simeone’s immediate focus is a “must-win” Champions League knockout play-off.
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The Situation: Atletico and Club Brugge are deadlocked after a wild 3-3 draw in the first leg.
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The Match: The return leg kicks off Tuesday, February 24, at 18:45 CET at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano.
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The Stakes: An early European exit could accelerate the timeline for Simeone’s departure, turning tomorrow night into a potential “beginning of the end” for his era in Madrid.