Reports: Simeone, Profe Ortega partnership could be coming to an end

Óscar “El Profe” Ortega and Diego Simeone have worked together since the Argentine became a manager. From Racing, River Plate, Estudiantes, San Lorenzo and then to Atlético Madrid, Ortega has always prepared Cholo’s teams for battle.

But that partnership could soon be nearing an end, according to Patricia Cazón in Diario AS.

The physical trainer joined up with Uruguay last January for their games against Venezuela and Paraguay after getting the go-ahead from a reluctant Simeone and Miguel Ángel Gil. It was a “dream come true” for Ortega, who reputedly assured Atlético that it would be a one-time thing and that he would not go to the World Cup in Qatar with the national team should they qualify.

In May, however, things changed.

Ortega said he would like to continue to work with Uruguay, and Diego Alonso, Uruguay’s manager, said recently El Profe is waiting until the end of the season to make any move. Meanwhile, Cholo Simeone is reportedly searching, now, for a new physical trainer.

“Being with Uruguay is the very top,” the 64-year-old said in March. “But I have a contract with a club that has been my home for many years and that deserves all of my professional respect. It’s a club I love very much and in which I must fulfill my responsibilities.”

Atlético suffered a string of injuries this season, which has been a theme now for a number of years. Simeone has said that the team does not need a complete overhaul, but needs to be smarter and fresher to compete next season. Andrea Berta seemingly ruled out massive signings earlier this week.