Tiago Mendes is pleased Diego Simeone is talking with Atletico Madrid about a five-year contract extension but wants Cholo in place even longer.
The midfielder revealed the players know little about Simeone’s status other than what has been reported, with it being said last week that Atletico and the Coach were looking at a deal until 2020.
“We heard about his renewal in the Press,” Tiago said, AS reports
“We’re very pleased. I think they’re talking about five years. What we want is for it to be 10. The players are very happy and the fans are happy with him too.
“I sincerely wish [Simeone can emulate Sir Alex Ferguson]. It’s up to the Coach and the club and we can’t let it distract us. This is a very important time of the season.”
Atletico are back in Champions League action this week and Tiago discussed the importance of the competition, the qualities of opponents Bayer Leverkusen and the physical status of the squad.
“We’re fine. These past few weeks we’ve had time to work and get ready for this important phase. All the players are at their highest level,” he noted.
“The group is strong and prepared. After months of waiting for this game we know how important it is.
“We had a great Champions League last year and we want this year to be good too. There are no easy games though and I’m sure we’ll experience suffering.
“What matters are the teams [not Leverkusen’s individual qualities]. They have great set pieces, attack with a lot of numbers and they are dangerous in transitions.”
