Athletic extend coach Simeone’s contract

MADRID, Spain (AP):

Coach Diego Simeone signed a contract extension Thursday to stay at Athletico Madrid until June 2027.

Atletico said extending their deal with the Argentine coach gives "continuity" to the project that began when he arrived in December 2011.

"Since then, we have gone through one of our most successful periods, during which we have won eight titles," Atletico said.

The 53-year-old Simeone has helped Atletico win two Spanish leagues, one Copa del Rey, two Europa Leagues, two European Super Cups and one Spanish Super Cup. He also led them to two Champions League finals.

The former midfielder has coached Atletico in 642 games, winning 380. He is the coach with the most official games in charge and has coached the same team for the most consecutive seasons in the Spanish league.

Since his first complete season at the helm, Atletico have qualified for the group stage of the Champions League every time.

Financial details of the new deal were not immediately released.