Saúl after leaving Atlético: 'They have no more excuses now'

After more than a decade at Atlético Madrid, where he rose from academy talent to first-team regular and became one of the most symbolic players of the Simeone era, Saúl Ñíguez is turning a new page in his career and life in Brazil.

The 29-year-old midfielder has officially joined Flamengo in what many see as a surprising yet deeply personal move. Speaking to Spanish radio station Cope, Saúl explained not only his decision to leave Atlético, but also shed light on a failed transfer to Turkey, his final conversation with Diego Simeone, and his unfiltered view of Atlético’s current ambitions.

“In the end, it was a personal matter,” he said, addressing the late collapse of a move to Turkish side Trabzonspor. “My wife is pregnant, and it was difficult to perform at my best in a place where I would’ve been alone. It wasn’t about money, or football, or the level of the league it was about life. We’re expecting our first child, and I didn’t want to be far away, isolated, trying to settle into a new culture without her by my side.”

Instead, Saúl chose Flamengo, a decision driven not just by footballing opportunity but by a desire for a better lifestyle. “That’s why I chose Rio because of the climate, the food, and because the language is much easier for both of us. It’s a vibrant city, with a passionate club, and it feels like a fresh start in a place where I can also live well. I didn’t want stress I wanted a challenge that felt human.”

For a player who has given so much to Atlético Madrid, the departure still feels strange to many fans. Saúl was more than just another squad player he was a symbol of the club’s values: effort, sacrifice, versatility, and loyalty. He joined the academy as a child, debuted with the first team in 2012, and was a key part of the squad that reached two Champions League finals and won the La Liga title in 2020–21. But time and circumstances changed. His playing time diminished. His loan to Chelsea in 2021–22 never clicked. And though he returned, the writing was on the wall.

This summer, head coach Diego Simeone finally confirmed what had been quietly building. “Our relationship had its ups and downs, but he was always honest,” Saúl said. “He always said things to my face, never behind my back. In our last conversation, he told me I was no longer part of his plans. It was actually a good talk people expected me to be angry, but I wasn’t. I appreciated the honesty. After everything we went through together, that’s all I could ask for.”

Saúl’s relationship with Simeone spans more than a decade, and their dynamic has always been intense. Simeone relied heavily on him in the past, even playing him out of position for the good of the team at left-back, on the wing, and anywhere else needed. That trust eroded in recent seasons as the club evolved and younger players emerged. For Saúl, it became clear that his time at the club had run its course.

But his departure hasn’t dulled his passion for Atlético Madrid nor his willingness to speak frankly about their current situation. “They’re running out of excuses,” he said when asked about the team’s future. “Last year they spent 200 million euros. This year they’re spending again. If the club is investing like the big teams, then they have to compete like the big teams.”

He stopped short of criticising any individual, but his message was unmistakable. “It wasn’t a bad season, but the difference between almost winning and actually winning is huge. Atlético can’t keep saying ‘we don’t have the resources’ or ‘Saúl earns too much.’ That excuse is gone. Now they’re spending as much as Real Madrid or Barcelona. It’s time to go for it all.”

For many fans, Saúl’s words ring true. Under Simeone, Atlético have always walked the line between underdog mentality and genuine contender. While the Argentine coach brought unprecedented stability and success, including two La Liga titles and a Europa League crown, the club now faces higher expectations. And Saúl believes it’s time for the team to shift its mentality to match its resources.

“As long as Simeone’s message still gets through to the players, I can see him continuing,” Saúl added. “But that’s the key the message. If the players believe in it, in the identity, in the work, then he can keep going. If not, things have to change. Because in today’s football, the margin for error is small. And Atlético should be in the fight not just for a Champions League spot, but for trophies.”

As for his own future, Saúl is embracing the unknown with open arms. Flamengo presents not only a new league but a new life and perhaps, the first time in years where football won’t be everything. “I’ve spent my whole adult life at Atlético,” he said. “Now I get to see what’s outside of that world. I’m excited. I’m not looking for revenge or redemption. I’m just looking to enjoy football again and build a life with my family in a place that makes us happy.”