Saul: I still have a knot in my heart. I wanted to stay at Atletico Madrid, but some things are out of control

Hupu September 20th Saul was exclusively interviewed by the Ass in Rio de Janeiro. He talked about Atletico coach Simeone, reviewed his Atletico career, and also talked about Atletico's current situation. The following is the second half of his exclusive interview.

How much impact do you think Simeone has on Felipe?

I would say it is very big, very big. As I have always said, Simeone has influenced all the players who have played under him. Although everyone will have their own way of thinking… there are things that will be imprinted on you and affect your life. Not only in football career, but also in personal life. It's thanks to Simeone, who has a lot to teach and he lives in his unique way. I really believe Simeone influenced him in many ways. Felipe often thinks they are not like it because the style of the game is completely different, but I do see a lot of similarities when he speaks or starts to convey the message.

Do you think he is Simeone's successor? At least here, people are talking about this

Well, I don't know (laughs), Simeone is full of energy right now, despite the bad start of the season, I'm sure and believe things will change and they'll have an amazing season. Simeone will stay there for many years, and he is worthy of it if he wants. When he decided to leave, logically many coaches who had played for the club, such as Gabi, Felipe, Fernando, and even Thiago…many people influenced by Simeone could become his successors. But it is clear that his successor will face a very difficult task.

You are still one of Atletico Madrid fans' favorite players. What is the hardest thing to say goodbye to Atletico Madrid for you?

Well, about me still one of Atletico fans’ favorite players…I don’t think so. I know very well that I must thank Atletico Madrid for the rest of my life, the fans there, Simeone, Miguel Angel. They made me realize every child’s dream: play in La Liga, play for the club I love, and play for a club I trust you. I try to defend the team in the best way possible. To tell you the truth, I do still have a knot in my heart, and I hope I am still there, maintaining the highest level and giving the best football. But due to various circumstances, this has not been achieved. I would have liked to stay there and defend that jersey for as long as possible, especially to keep it high. There are some situations that have been uncontrollable to me, which led to my career, but in fact, everything I did was out of my own will.

How do you summarize your history in Madrid? Which moment do you remember the most?

If I had to choose a moment, it was the sense of belonging I felt in the last Champions League match, we beat Real Madrid 2-1 but failed to advance. It was raining heavily that day, but our fans showed what Atletico Madrid spirit was. This is a feeling that goes far beyond the result and far beyond the football itself. This is what remains in the career of a football player. In the end, the champion is a brief happiness and will pass afterwards. But that spirit is there, it feels good, I have enjoyed, those experiences that you remember for life. Compared to victory, championship, etc., I cherish those moments more. The investments of the

teams are historic. Can you say they have to fight for everything now?

The investment is indeed very high, but the club does a very good job. Can you say they can compete for everything? They were competing for everything before. In the end, there is only a line between winning and losing. In terms of competition, they have been competing with everyone for the past 12 or 13 years. For example, Simeone first won the UEFA Cup but was unable to compete for the La Liga title, but later became a contender. Same as in other years. Atletico Madrid is asked so because they won it all on the court, which keeps them fighting for the championship all the time. As I said, there is a line between winning and losing, and they always compete for everything.

You have played in many historic stadiums, which one do you like the most?

I have played in many stadiums and they are all beautiful, but I chose Calderon. Everything I experienced on that stadium was unique, and to be honest, the magic generated there was unique and special, and no stadium could compare to it yet.

What goals did you set for this season?

I still have oil, I'm almost 31 now, and I don't think this is the final stage, but, as I said before, since I came here, I'm not thinking about lifting the Copa of Liberators, or who in two rounds. My focus is on enjoying everyday life and even finding solutions in everyday life to adapt as quickly as possible. I didn't think further. The team is very solid and very good. Especially what they show is not only the result, but also the form. We are in a good moment. In these six, seven and eight games, we will decide the whole season and we must do our best.