Few football managers can match Diego Simeone’s fervor, tactical skill, and unwavering intensity. Since assuming control of Atletico Madrid in 2011, he has left a legacy characterized by perseverance, discipline, and an unwavering dedication to achievement.
He is the highest-paid football manager in the world, earning an incredible $50 million a year, but his influence extends beyond the field. The query is: What distinguishes Simeone from other managers?
Diego Simeone’s Salary & Financial Breakdown
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Diego Pablo Simeone González |
| Date of Birth | April 28, 1970 (Age: 53) |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Current Club | Atlético Madrid (Since 2011) |
| Position (as player) | Midfielder |
| Annual Salary | $50 million (£39 million) |
| Monthly Salary | $4.1 million |
| Weekly Salary | $961,500 |
| Daily Salary | $137,350 |
| Net Worth | $130 million (£102 million) |
| Major Achievements | 2x La Liga, 2x Europa League, 10 major trophies with Atlético |
| Official Website | Atlético Madrid |
What is Diego Simeone’s salary?
Simeone’s $50 million yearly salary is much more than Jurgen Klopp’s $17.5 million salary at Liverpool and almost double what Pep Guardiola makes at Manchester City ($25 million). Not even Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti makes more than $12.5 million annually.
Simeone’s income is comparable to that of other top managers as follows:
- Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid) earns $50 million annually,
- Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid) earns $12.5 million annually,
- Pep Guardiola (Manchester City) earns $25 million annually,
- Jurgen Klopp (Liverpool) earns $17.5 million annually.
His salary exceeds that of many of the best football players in the world, demonstrating how highly Atlético regards his leadership.
Why Does Simeone Get Paid So Much by Atletico Madrid?
Making Atletico Madrid a Powerhouse in Europe
Prior to Simeone’s arrival in 2011, Atletico Madrid was a team that was having identity issues. Their performances in Europe were patchy, and they hadn’t won La Liga in more than ten years.
Under his direction, they’ve:
Two La Liga titles were won (2013–14, 2020–21).
✅ Become consistent UEFA Champions League contenders
✅ Participated in two Champions League finals (2013–14, 2015–16)
✅ Won numerous national and international awards
Despite having a smaller budget, his ability to regularly challenge Real Madrid and Barcelona justifies his record-breaking salary.
Record-Breaking Contracts to Reward Loyalty
Simeone has been at Atletico Madrid until 2027 thanks to several lucrative contract extensions. Despite being courted by Manchester United, PSG, and Juventus, he has stayed faithful to Atletico.
His most recent deal solidifies his position as the highest-paid football manager in the world.
Diego Simeone’s accomplishments as manager of Atletico Madrid
🏆 Two La Liga Championships (2013–14, 2020–21)
🏆 Two titles in the UEFA Europa League (2011–12, 2017–18)
🏆 Double UEFA Super Cups in 2012 and 2018
🏆 The first Copa del Rey (2012–2013)
🏆 One Spanish Super Cup (2014)
🏆 Two appearances in the Champions League Final (2013–14, 2015–16)
He is the most successful manager in Atletico’s history, having won ten major trophies.
Football’s Highest Paid Players vs. Diego Simeone
Football managers rarely make as much as the biggest names in the sport, but Simeone’s $50 million salary places him in a unique position:
- Al-Nassr’s Cristiano Ronaldo earns $200 million annually (including endorsements);
- Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi makes $45 million;
- PSG’s Kylian Mbappé makes $110 million;
- Neymar (Al-Hilal) makes $80 million;
- Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone makes $50 million annually
Simeone’s income surpasses Messi’s and is comparable to Neymar’s, demonstrating that his impact goes beyond strategy and is a brand in and of itself.
What Will Happen to Diego Simeone Next?
Simeone is 53 years old and has many more years to be at the top. However, it is still unclear if he will spend the remainder of his career at Atletico Madrid.
Here are a few potential future actions:
Manchester United: His tactical discipline has long been admired by the team. Argentina National Team: His ultimate ambition may be to manage his native nation.
🔥 Return to Serie A: Italy is a likely destination because he played for Inter Milan and Lazio.
Simeone is still concentrating on Atlético, where he is expanding his footballing business.
