DIEGO SIMEONE broke down in tears as Atletico Madrid held a touching tribute to his father.
Carlos Simeone passed away in his home country of Argentina last month at the age of 80.
Atletico announced the news in a statement on the club website which read: “The father of our coach, Diego Pablo Simeone, and grandfather’s Giuliano Simeone, Atlético de Madrid B striker, passed away in Buenos Aires.
“Today is a sad day for the Red & White family. Our club is in mourning for the death of Carlos Simeone, father of our coach Diego Pablo Simeone, and grandfather’s Giuliano Simeone, Atlético de Madrid B striker.
“In his memory, the Wanda Metropolitano flag will be at half-mast.
“Our president Enrique Cerezo; the CEO, Miguel Angel Gil Marín; the Board of Directors and all the employees, would like to convey its most sincere condolences to the family of our coach for such an irreparable loss.
“May he rest in peace.”
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The club also organised a special tribute to Carlos before their La Liga clash with Alaves.
A minute of silence was observed by everyone in the Wanda Metropolitano Stadium prior to kick off.
It was clearly a touching moment for Diego, who looked on from the sidelines with tears in his eyes.
Simeone is regarded as one of the most fiery managers in football, but he could not control his emotions during the silence.
Atletico Madrid went on to win the game 4-1, with goals from Joao Felix and Luis Suarez.
The Colchoneros boss praised his side during the post-match press conference but also took a moment to express his gratitude for the tributes.
He said: “I wanted to comment on the minute of silence for my father, I appreciate it, I will never forget it.”
