Giménez: Unwavering Loyalty to Atleti
José María Giménez, a fundamental pillar in Atlético’s defense, has revealed that he had the opportunity to leave the club on two occasions, but his red and white heart kept him firmly at the Metropolitano.
After twelve years defending the Atleti shirt, the Uruguayan centre-back confessed that in 2018 and later, during the pandemic, he seriously considered a change of scenery.
In an interview, Giménez explained that during the pandemic he felt uncomfortable and considered the possibility of leaving, but after reflecting and talking to the coach and Miguel Ángel Gil, he prioritized his feelings and his connection with the club.
“I realized that what I really wanted was to stay,” the defender stated. One of the offers came from a Premier League club, while the destination of the other was never revealed.
Giménez, visibly emotional, compared the passion and commitment of Atlético to those of the Uruguayan national team, highlighting the unparalleled support of the red and white fans in Europe. For the centre-back, resilience defines Atleti: “Winning at Atlético is very difficult, it is very hard.
Look, we compete with two world powers, which are Real Madrid and Barcelona. And when a title is won, the taste is sweeter. It feels better.” And he added: “Being here has taught me that winning is not always the most important thing. I have learned that the path you travel and what you learn during its journey is the real success.” His decision to remain at the club demonstrates his commitment and love for the red and white colors.
