Former Atletico midfielder and currently playing for flamenco, Saul accepted an exclusive interview with The Ass, reviewed his Atletico career and talked about Flamengo's current coach and his former teammate Felipe.

How is Felipe, a coach, different from him as a teammate? How much influence did Simeone have on him?

He did a great job. Many coaches left a deep mark on him, and I think they all taught him to live in the present and play in the game. As a player, the way he looks at things is impressive. He is testing all his experience here in Flamenco.

As for Simeone's influence, I would say it is very, very big. "Jolo" (Simone's nickname) branded all of us who played under him, which is not only about football, but also about personal life. Felipe often thinks he is not like Simeone because the style of the game is completely different, but when he speaks or starts to convey something, I do see a lot of similarities.

Do you think Felipe will be Simeone's successor?

I don't know (laughs). "Qiao Luo" is full of energy now and he will stay there for many years. When he decided to leave, logically many players who had experienced that era, such as Gabi, Felipe, Fernando (Torres), and even Thiago...many people could become his successors. But it is certain that his successor will be very, very difficult.

You are still one of Atletico Madrid fans' favorite players. What is the most difficult thing to say goodbye to Atletico Madrid? Do you have any regrets?

I must thank Atletico Madrid for the rest of my life. They made me realize every child’s dream. I try to defend the team in the best way. To be honest, I feel a little stingy. I hope to stay there, compete at the highest level and give them the best football. Due to various circumstances, this has not been achieved. But I do hope to stay there and defend that jersey for as long as possible, especially at a high level.

Looking back on your career at Atletico Madrid, what is the most memorable moment?

If you have to choose a moment, it is the sense of belonging I felt in the last Champions League match at Calderon Stadium. We beat Real Madrid 2-1 in that game but failed to advance. It was raining heavily that day, but our fans showed their significance as a member of Atletico Madrid. It is an emotion that surpasses results and surpasses football. These experiences will accompany the player throughout his life, and for me, it is far more important than the title.

You have played in many famous stadiums such as Calderon, Metropolitan City, Stamford Bridge, Allianz, etc. Which one do you like the most?

I played many beautiful courts, but I chose Bicente Calderon. Everything I experienced at that stadium was unique, and the kind of magic it produced was unique and special. So far, no stadium has compared it.