Simeone rules Cristiano out forever

Atletico fans spent the summer thinking that Cristiano could arrive at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Finally, Cristiano stayed at Old Trafford. Simeone revealed to Martin Liberman what was true in those rumours despite the Atletico fans' rejection. 

"Someone told me that you were tempting to sign Cristiano," the journalist told him. The coach replied: "They told you anything far from reality. Ronaldo is an absolute legend at Madrid. I wouldn't see Palermo playing for River Plate just as I wouldn't see Riquelme or Ortega playing for Boca Juniors. There are clear situations," he said.

"I remember that a fan yelled me without knowing anything about what was going on but knowing about the rumours: 'Cholo, be careful, the Champions League is not at all costs'. And I liked it because it is a very good thought from the heart."

"I'm not going to deny Cristiano's career," he added. The Atletico coach wished the Portuguese player all the best, although far away from the Metropolitano: "I have no doubt he will score goals again, not like the goals he has scored before, but it is impossible for him to go away if he is mentally strong," he concluded.