Atletico Madrid have announced that Luis Suarez will leave the club at the end of the season. The announcement was made before the club’s home game against Sevilla in La Liga on Sunday.
The 35-year-old moved to the Spanish capital in 2020 and has run down the length of a two-year deal that he signed at the time.
"At the end of the game, the Wanda Metropolitano will pay tribute to Luis Suarez and Hector Herrera, who are saying goodbye to the Red & White family today," Atletico announced on social media.
Suarez was ar in his final home game for Atletico and was afforded a standing ovation as he was taken off in the second half.
After the game, an emotional Suarez gave his farewell speech in front of the home fans at the Wanda Metropolitano.
"I want to thank every one of the Atletico fans, all of the staff, and the people who work here every day. It's impressive the affection they showed me since I arrived, and I'll never forget it. I'm so grateful," he said.
Next destination for Suarez?
There is a question of the striker’s next destination, given that he is past his better years. However, he might be 35 but still holds a desire to remain at the top level of European football, per Fabrizio Romano.
With Bayern Munich struggling to keep hold of Robert Lewandowski, who wants a move to Barcelona, bookmakers and online football betting sites are tipping Suarez to join the German side for his possible final adventure in Europe.
Although, his recent struggle with fitness makes it difficult to see if a top side would take the gamble for his signature. One thing is certain, though, and it’s the fact that Suarez won’t be without suitors in the coming transfer window.
A short but fruitful time at Atletico Madrid
In a move that caused much controversy, Suarez joined Atletico from rivals Barcelona on a free transfer in 2020. He was an integral figure as Los Rojiblancos claimed their first La Liga win since 2014.
Suarez scored 21 goals across all competitions include Champions League in the 2020/21 campaign and also scored the winning goal on the final day of the season against Real Valladolid.
However, the Uruguay international has struggled to recreate those heroics, having battled recurring injuries this term.
Suarez is expected to make his last bow for Atletico when they take on Real Sociedad in their final game of the season next week.
By :
Steven D. Thompson
