NBA
Diego Simeone Rarely Called Julián to Convince Him – Here’s Why

Diego Simeone Rarely Called Julián to Convince Him – Here’s Why
Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone is known for his intense passion and hands-on approach to coaching, but when it came to convincing Julián—presumably Julián Álvarez or another target—to join his squad, he took a surprisingly different approach. Reports suggest that unlike the aggressive recruitment tactics often seen in modern football, Simeone rarely reached out personally to persuade the player.
While many managers actively call and meet with transfer targets to sell them on their vision, Simeone apparently took a more reserved approach with Julián. Instead of constant phone calls or direct persuasion, he let the club’s project, style of play, and potential role in the squad do most of the talking.
This method aligns with Simeone’s philosophy of demanding commitment from his players. He expects those who join Atlético to already be fully invested in the team’s values, rather than needing heavy convincing.sting the Atlético
lt a strong identity under Simeone—one defined by discipline, hard work, and a never-give-up mentality. Instead of selling players on promises, Simeone relies on his track record of success to attract talent.
For a player like Julián, the appeal of playing under a manager who has led Atlético to multiple trophies and consistently competed at the highest level may have been enough of a draw without the need for constant calls or persuasion.
While Simeone may not have been heavily involved in personally convincing him, other factors likely influenced Julián’s decision. These could include:
– Playing time: Understanding his role in the squad and whether he’d be a starter or rotation player.
– Tactical fit:How his style complements Simeone’s defensive discipline and counterattacking philosophy.
– Competition for places: The presence of other strikers or attacking players in the squad.
– Club ambitions:Whether Atlético’s goals align with his personal ambitions for success.
Simeone’s approach highlights his leadership style—one that demands self-motivation from his players. He wants individuals who believe in the project and are ready to fight for the club, rather than those who need to be talked into joining.
This contrasts with managers who use more persuasive tactics, such as Pep Guardiola or José Mourinho, who have been known to call players personally to pitch their projects. Simeone, on the other hand, lets the team’s results and identity speak for themselves.
In an era where managers often go all-out to persuade players to join their teams, Simeone’s reluctance to frequently call Julián shows confidence in his team and project. Instead of convincing a player to come, he wants players who already see Atlético Madrid as the right destination.
Ultimately, whether or not Julián ends up thriving under Simeone will depend on his adaptability and fit within the system. But one thing is clear—if he’s at Atlético, it’s because he truly wants to be there, not because of a manager’s sales pitch.