As a child in Argentina, Giuliano Simeone sat across from his father, Diego Simeone, over coffee and croissants, discussing the prospect of managing Atletico Madrid. Fast forward nearly 14 years, and Giuliano is no longer just the coach’s son—he is emerging as a key player in his father’s squad.
At just 22 years old, Giuliano Simeone’s rise has been anything but easy. Moving from River Plate’s youth ranks to Atletico Madrid’s academy at 16, he had to earn his spot through sheer hard work. Unlike his older brother Giovanni, who was once told by Diego that he would not be signed by Atletico to avoid complications in the dressing room, Giuliano has steadily carved out his own path in the club. His journey has been marked by patience, perseverance, and a relentless desire to succeed.
Earning His Place in Atletico’s Plans
Giuliano Simeone’s breakthrough did not happen overnight. His early years in Spain saw him play for Atletico Madrid’s B team, where he made a significant impact by scoring 25 goals in 36 games in the 2021-22 season. This impressive performance earned him a first-team debut, albeit a brief one, as a substitute in a goalless draw against Granada.
To further develop his skills, he was sent on loan to second-division Real Zaragoza before moving to La Liga side Alaves. These experiences helped shape his game, and now, with Atletico Madrid chasing the La Liga title, Giuliano has become a crucial figure in his father’s tactical plans. His recent form speaks volumes—four goal involvements in his last three matches, including a goal and an assist against Red Bull Salzburg in the Champions League, a key assist in a La Liga win over Mallorca, and two goals in a Copa del Rey quarter-final triumph against Getafe.
Giuliano Simeone’s Tactical Versatility and Growing Influence
Despite limited starts early in the season, Giuliano’s importance has grown significantly. He has started Atletico’s last eight league matches and played a key role in their final five Champions League group games. His impressive performances even earned him his first senior cap for Argentina in November 2024, a testament to his rising status in world football.
Diego Forlán, a former Atletico Madrid striker, has praised the young winger’s dedication and versatility. “He has worked hard, made a lot of sacrifices and assists. He is playing well and has shown that he is a quality professional,” Forlán told BBC Sport. “He is very versatile, adaptable, and in a great moment right now.” Giuliano has not only played as a right winger but has also been deployed as a centre forward and even as a wing-back when needed, demonstrating his willingness to adapt to Atletico’s tactical demands.
A Fighter Like His Father, but with His Own Style
While Giuliano Simeone does not share his father’s defensive midfield role, he possesses similar traits of determination, discipline, and work ethic. Diego Simeone’s philosophy at Atletico has always emphasized resilience and tactical intelligence, qualities that his son has embodied on the pitch.
Forlán highlighted the unique challenges that come with being the coach’s son. “He knows his father is the coach, so he has to train more than normal because everyone is always watching him,” Forlán said. “That will push him to work even harder because people expect more from him.” This constant scrutiny has only fueled Giuliano’s drive, making him a player who is not only earning his place at Atletico but also thriving under the pressure.
As Atletico Madrid prepares for a crucial derby against Real Madrid, Giuliano finds himself in the spotlight, not because of his last name but because of his performances. With his recent surge in form and his father’s trust, the youngest Simeone is proving that he belongs at the top level—on merit, not favoritism.
Giuliano Simeone: Following in His Father’s Footsteps in European Football
Giuliano Simeone was born in Rome while his father, Diego Simeone, was playing for Lazio. However, his time in Italy was short-lived as the family returned to Argentina during his early childhood. Despite the geographical shift, football remained central to his upbringing, with his father’s illustrious career shaping his passion for the sport.
At just eight years old, Giuliano Simeone experienced a pivotal moment in his father’s career. While spending time in the coastal resort of Mar del Plata, he listened as Diego Simeone contemplated a coaching offer from Atlético Madrid. In a conversation recalled by The Coaches’ Voice, the young Giuliano enthusiastically pointed out the opportunity to coach Radamel Falcao and face football legends like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Even at that tender age, he recognized the magnitude of the opportunity, albeit acknowledging the potential sacrifice: “If you do well, you won’t come back.” His words proved prophetic, as Diego Simeone has remained in Europe, building a managerial dynasty at Atlético Madrid.
Simeone’s Sons Thriving in European Football
Years later, Giuliano has joined his father in Madrid, along with his brother Gianluca, who plays for Rayo Majadahonda. Their eldest sibling, Giovanni, plies his trade at Napoli, ensuring the Simeone name continues to make waves across European football. Their progression reflects a natural inheritance of footballing talent, as former Uruguay international Diego Forlán noted: “It’s part of your DNA, in your blood. You have been brought up focusing on football.”
Forlán also emphasized the meritocratic nature of Giuliano Simeone’s rise, dispelling notions of nepotism. “Simeone, as a father, has the opportunity to manage his son, and no one is saying ‘oh no, his son is playing there because his father is a coach.’” Giuliano’s performances have spoken for themselves, earning him recognition as an emerging talent. If he continues his impressive form, particularly in high-stakes matches like the upcoming Madrid derby, he will not only bring pride to his father but also win over Atlético Madrid’s passionate fanbase.
