Chapter 584: Conversation with the Manager

It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the current success of Atlético Madrid is largely thanks to Diego Simeone. Before his arrival, the league was typically dominated by Barcelona and Real Madrid.

However, when Simeone took over and implemented his philosophy-centered on defensive solidity, quick counter-attacks, and a highly disciplined team structure—he rapidly transformed the squad into title contenders.

In his debut season, he led the team to Europa League glory and followed it up with even more silverware, including La Liga titles in the 2013-14 and 2020-21 seasons, breaking the long-standing dominance of the Barcelona-Real Madrid duopoly. Simeone’s pragmatic approach earned him wide recognition, even though it contrasts with the possession-based philosophies of clubs like Barcelona and Manchester City.

As the call connected, Hiro was greeted by the sight of an older man with sharp, angular features, piercing eyes, and slicked-back dark hair-Diego Simeone. Dressed in a sleek black suit, the Atlético Madrid manager wore a warm, welcoming smile.

“Are you with him, Hugo?” Simeone asked.

“Yes, sir. I’m with him now,” Hugo responded respectfully, before turning to Hiro and asking, “Are you familiar with Spanish?”

Hiro shook his head. “I understand a little.”

“That works,” Hugo replied with a smile. “I’ll help with the translation.”

As Hugo turned the screen towards him, Simeone spoke warmly, “Hello, Hiro. It’s a pleasure to finally speak with you. Hugo has probably already told you that I personally recommended you for this opportunity.”

Hugo translated Simeone’s words, and Hiro nodded, replying confidently, “Yes, sir, I’ve heard. But, if I may be direct, I have a few questions I’d like to ask first.”

Simeone appreciated fearlessness in young players, and Hiro’s boldness earned him a faint smirk. “Go ahead,” the manager replied, leaning forward with interest.

“Why me?” Hiro asked bluntly. “I don’t mean any disrespect, nor do I question your judgment, but I can’t help wondering about your plans for me.”

Hugo, who had also been curious, leaned in to listen closely. Although he knew the club’s situation, even he couldn’t fully grasp why Simeone had chosen a young, relatively inexperienced player over a proven veteran.

Simeone’s smirk grew, “Would you believe me if I said it’s partly intuition?” he began. “I can already see you’re a talented player, and I’m aware of the risk I’m taking. But I do not doubt that you’ll adapt quickly.”

“The fundamentals are already in place, but I’m missing creativity in the squad, and I see you as the perfect piece of the puzzle.”

“You might’ve heard from Eric,” Simeone continued, “but in a year, Griezmann will be leaving the club. That doesn’t mean you’ll be expected to fill his shoes immediately, but I see you as a key player for the future.”

As he spoke, an intensity flashed in Simeone’s eyes, “Don’t feel pressured by that—just know that you have my trust, and the club will be patient with your progress. I guarantee you’ll get playing time.”

Suddenly, Simeone’s tone darkened as he added, “But let me be blunt: you have three years to make your mark. I hope you understand what I’m saying.”

These last words struck Hiro deeply. Simeone’s honesty and the time limit he had set felt real and sincere. If the contract was as valuable as Eric had explained, the club would certainly expect a return on their investment.

Atlético Madrid, a top-tier club, wasn’t offering him this opportunity without expecting great things.

With this, Hiro’s lingering doubts faded. He understood his role: he was being groomed to replace Griezmann.

The conversation continued, and Simeone patiently answered all of Hiro’s questions. By the end, Hiro had a clear understanding of the coach’s tactical philosophy and the specific role he would play on the team.

He realized that Simeone had been drawn to him because of his work rate, creativity, and ability to disrupt opposing defenses. It was clear: this was a pivotal moment in his career.

And with this understanding, Hiro felt ready to face the challenge ahead.

“Thank you, sir,” Hiro bowed his head as he thanked the manager for answering his questions without getting annoyed.

Simeone smiled warmly, “Are your doubts cleared? If you still have something to ask, I’m more than willing to answer.”

Hiro responded with a smile, shaking his head, “You’ve already answered the questions that I have been curious about. So, I don’t want to trouble you more sir.”

“Is that so,” he said with a solemn expression. “Then it was a pleasure to talk to you, Hiro. We’ll meet soon.”

With that, the call ended.

Hugo stared fixedly at him with an amusing smile on his face. Upon locating the smile, Hiro couldn’t help but ask, “Did I say something wrong?”

Hugo immediately shook his head and responded in a soft tone, “No, I just found that you’re a rather interesting fellow. And I get this feeling that we’ll get along well in the future.”

Hiro felt confused by the remarks he made. Nonetheless, he agreed, “Yeah, I hope so too.”

After that, they sat there for a while and left the restaurant after a hearty meal. In the meantime, Hugo shared his experience. As a listener, Hiro patiently listened to him without ever interrupting.

Later Hiro returned to his home and pondered over the matter he had discussed with the manager. As he recalled the moment, he felt astonished by himself.

He felt astonished to have talked with such a great manager without being intimidated.

‘Just how was I able to talk to him so comfortably?’ Hiro felt puzzled and astonished by the earlier conversation. ‘Just when did I grow this much?’

The more he thought about it the more he felt puzzled. Unable to figure it out, he stopped pondering about it.

With a carefree attitude, he revealed a sigh, “Sigh! Seems like I’ll have to procure some result

in this season to convince the fans.”

Right now, he was lying on the bed with his back flat against the mattress.

Throwing himself up, he stood and said, “Yosh! Let’s go train.”

He was pulsating with energy and determination.