Mario Hermoso has found a new home at Galatasaray, leaving Atlético Madrid behind after a difficult season. The agreement between the Spanish centre-back and the Turkish club is about to become official, marking a significant turn in the defender's career.
Galatasaray have confirmed that Hermoso has signed a three-year contract guaranteeing him a salary of more than five million euros per season. This contract is a reflection of the value that Galatasaray places on the player and the confidence they have in his ability.
A new challenge
Hermoso's move to Galatasaray not only represents a change of club, but also an opportunity to play in the UEFA Europa League. Galatasaray, one of the most important teams in Turkey, has failed to qualify for the Champions League group stage. The Turks lost in the qualifying phase to Young Boys and will not play in the top club competition.
At Atlético, under Diego Simeone, Hermoso was a very important player. Although he spent a year almost without a contract, his last season demonstrated the confidence that the Argentine coach had in him. In fact, he wanted to renew his contract, but the board was not going to offer the Spaniard more money.
Galatasaray have seen Hermoso as a versatile and valuable player, capable of playing both as a centre-back and as a left-back. This flexibility is one of the main reasons why the Turkish club has decided to sign him. With the recent loan of Derick Köhn to Werder Bremen and the arrival of Ismaïl Jakobs, Hermoso could have the opportunity to play in various positions.
Simeone loses a pillar
For Mario Hermoso, this signing represents a new stage in his career, with the opportunity to play in a high-level European context. For Galatasaray, Hermoso's signing adds a versatile defensive option with international experience, thus strengthening their squad to face the challenges of the season.
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone will see his former player face new challenges at a rival club. While the change of club may come as a surprise, Hermoso's move to Galatasaray underlines how players must adapt to new circumstances.