Tiago signs new Atletico deal
- adamhigginsuk
- Jul 21, 2014
- 2 min read
Key man: Tiago, who has been constantly linked with a Premier League return, was a huge part of one of the most successful seasons in Atletico's history last term (Picture from Zimbio.com)
MIDFIELDER Tiago Mendes has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract with La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.
The 33-year-old, who played for Chelsea under Jose Mourinho in the 2004-05 season, had been heavily linked with a return to Stamford Bridge and also attracted the interest of fellow Spanish side Valencia this summer.
But the Portuguese has now committed his future to last season's Champions League runners-up by agreeing fresh terms.
Tiago will now fly to Begovia to join the rest of Diego Simeone's squad on a pre-season training camp.
His four-year stay at the Vicente Calderon had appeared to come to an end when his contract ran out in June, but boss Simeone gave him time to consider his options.
"The club offered me to renew. I felt proud because we had an incredible season, but I thought that it was time to close this cycle," he told the club's official website.
"I had the opportunity to play in various international leagues and I took some time to assess the various options during the summer, but when it came to make my final decision, it was clear that Atleti was the only way choice.
"During these past few weeks, there have been a lot of incorrect things said about me, but that does not change anything.
"Ever since the season ended and I haven’t forgotten about Atleti and the club hadn’t forgetten about me. Cholo always left the door open to me and now I'm very happy because I know that I have made the right choice.
"I want to thank the club for waiting for me and offering me this opportunity to continue here. I'm hoping to help the team in every way I can.
Tiago has so far scored 10 goals in 118 appearances for Los Colchoneros.
TIAGO: FACTFILE
Started his career in his native country with Braga and Benfica
Moved to Chelsea in 2004, spending one season at Stamford Bridge
Won the Premier League title under Jose Mourinho, scoring four goals in 34 appearances
Had a two-year stay at Lyon and joined Juventus for four years
Signed permanently for Atletico in 2011 after a successful loan spell
Won five major trophies so far including two Europa Leagues and La Liga
Made 58 caps for Portugal between 2002 and 2010, scoring three times
Last updated: 21 July 2014 22:44pm
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