Atletico Madrid

Diego Simeone pleased with new deal

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 07 March 2013

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone says that his long-term objective is to win the Champions League after signing a new five-year deal with the club.

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has said that his new contract is "a success for the club".

The Argentine, who has led Los Colchoneros to second place in La Liga, put pen to paper on a five-year extension at the Vicente Calderon this week.

He said that his long-term objective is to win the Champions League, but stated that his team must first qualify for the competition.

In the meantime, the 42-year-old has targeted victory in the Copa del Rey final against arch rivals Real Madrid.

"I thank the directors for having wanted to renew my contract," Simeone told a press conference. "We can continue with this philosophy and this project that has brought us together.

"This renewal is a success for the club, in terms of continuing to construct a balance.

"My objectives? To aspire to win the Champions League you have to qualify for it. First things first. Thereafter, we can respond in the summer. Hopefully we can also beat Madrid in the cup final. We'll work for it."

The final takes place on May 17.