As Atletico Madrid draw to the end of a season that could crown them Spanish and European champions, Brazilian defender Joao Miranda has highlighted the fact that this golden opportunity could be the last one they have as a group, with several players likely to move on to other destinations during the summer and after the World Cup.
Miranda, who is hoping to play in that very tournament himself, told reporters: “This group knows we lose some names next seaosn, so there is a feeling we have a unique chance in our careers, which cannot rise again.”
“That’s why we play every game as if our lives depended on the outcome. We owe it to the fans, and Simeone ( Diego,the head coach).”
Atletico are expected to lose striker Diego Costa in the close season, as well as goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and possibly young stars Koke and Nario Suarez.