Atletico Madrid midfielder Mario Suarez says he wants to end his playing career at the club despite being linked with a move away.
The 27-year-old, a product of Atleti’s youth academy, has started just six La Liga games this season and saw youngster Saul preferred by boss Diego Simeone for the injured Gabi in last weekend’s win over Deportivo la Coruna.
Nonetheless, Mario told GQ magazine that his intention is to remain at the Vicente Calderon providing he still has a part to play.
“I’ve been with Atletico 10 years, although I was away for four of them and I’ll always have a place in my heart for Real Mallorca, and I’m an Atleti fan.
“I’d love to finish my career here but if a Coach suddenly comes in that doesn’t want you then there’s nothing you can do about it,” said Mario, who revealed he loves it when the fans at the Vicente Calderon sing his name.
“I like it when the supporters sing ‘Super Mario’ because it makes me feel important and loved by them.
“This club is like one big family and, although players come, and go we still have a strong group, as the Coach has already said.
“Everyone knows what it is like to be at Atleti and we have the best fans in Spain.”
Mario also commented on the objectives Diego Simeone’s men have put in place for this season.
“The benchmark is to finish at least third in the League and therefore qualify automatically for the Champions League.
“The problem is that when you lose a game you receive a lot of criticism, but that’s what is expected when you play for a team at this level, although we are on the right road,” he declared.
