It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the current success of Atlético Madrid is largely thanks to Diego Sione. Before his arrival, the league was typically dominated by Barcelona and Real Madrid.
However, when Sione took over and implented his philosophy-centered on defensive solidity, quick counter-attacks, and a highly disciplined team structure—he rapidly transford the squad into title contenders.
In his debut season, he led the team to Europa League glory and followed it up with even more silverware, including La Liga titles in the 2013-14 and 2020-21 seasons, breaking the long-standing dominance of the Barcelona-Real Madrid duopoly. Sione's pragmatic approach earned him wide recognition, even though it contrasts with the possession-based philosophies of clubs like Barcelona and Manchester City.
As the call connected, Hiro was greeted by the sight of an older man with sharp, angular features, piercing eyes, and slicked-back dark hair-Diego Sione. Dressed in a sleek black suit, the Atlético Madrid manager wore a warm, welcoming smile.
"Are you with him, Hugo?" Sione asked.
"Yes, sir. I'm with him now," Hugo responded respectfully, before turning to Hiro and asking, "Are you familiar with Spanish?"
Hiro shook his head. "I understand a little."
"That works," Hugo replied with a smile. "I'll help with the translation."
As Hugo turned the screen towards him, Sione spoke warmly, "Hello, Hiro. It's a pleasure to finally speak with you. Hugo has probably already told you that I personally recomnded you for this opportunity."
Hugo translated Sione's words, and Hiro nodded, replying confidently, "Yes, sir, I've heard. But, if I may be direct, I have a few questions I'd like to ask first."
Sione appreciated fearlessness in young players, and Hiro's boldness earned him a faint smirk. "Go ahead," the manager replied, leaning forward with interest.
"Why ?" Hiro asked bluntly. "I don't an any disrespect, nor do I question your judgnt, but I can't help wondering about your plans for ."
Hugo, who had also been curious, leaned in to listen closely. Although he knew the club's situation, even he couldn't fully grasp why Sione had chosen a young, relatively inexperienced player over a proven veteran.
Sione's smirk grew, "Would you believe if I said it's partly intuition?" he began. "I can already see you're a talented player, and I'm aware of the risk I'm taking. But I do not doubt that you'll adapt quickly."
"The fundantals are already in place, but I'm missing creativity in the squad, and I see you as the perfect piece of the puzzle."
"You might've heard from Eric," Sione continued, "but in a year, Griezmann will be leaving the club. That doesn't an you'll be expected to fill his shoes imdiately, but I see you as a key player for the future."
As he spoke, an intensity flashed in Sione's eyes, "Don't feel pressured by that—just know that you have my trust, and the club will be patient with your progress. I guarantee you'll get playing ti."
Suddenly, Sione's tone darkened as he added, "But let be blunt: you have three years to make your mark. I hope you understand what I'm saying."
These last words struck Hiro deeply. Sione's honesty and the ti limit he had set felt real and sincere. If the contract was as valuable as Eric had explained, the club would certainly expect a return on their investnt.
Atlético Madrid, a top-tier club, wasn't offering him this opportunity without expecting great things.
With this, Hiro's lingering doubts faded. He understood his role: he was being grood to replace Griezmann.
The conversation continued, and Sione patiently answered all of Hiro's questions. By the end, Hiro had a clear understanding of the coach's tactical philosophy and the specific role he would play on the team.
He realized that Sione had been drawn to him because of his work rate, creativity, and ability to disrupt opposing defenses. It was clear: this was a pivotal mont in his career.
And with this understanding, Hiro felt ready to face the challenge ahead.
"Thank you, sir," Hiro bowed his head as he thanked the manager for answering his questions without getting annoyed.
Sione smiled warmly, "Are your doubts cleared? If you still have sothing to ask, I'm more than willing to answer."
Hiro responded with a smile, shaking his head, "You've already answered the questions that I have been curious about. So, I don't want to trouble you more sir."
"Is that so," he said with a solemn expression. "Then it was a pleasure to talk to you, Hiro. We'll et soon."
With that, the call ended.
Hugo stared fixedly at him with an amusing smile on his face. Upon locating the smile, Hiro couldn't help but ask, "Did I say sothing wrong?"
Hugo imdiately shook his head and responded in a soft tone, "No, I just found that you're a rather interesting fellow. And I get this feeling that we'll get along well in the future."
Hiro felt confused by the remarks he made. Nonetheless, he agreed, "Yeah, I hope so too."
After that, they sat there for a while and left the restaurant after a hearty al. In the anti, Hugo shared his experience. As a listener, Hiro patiently listened to him without ever interrupting.
Later Hiro returned to his ho and pondered over the matter he had discussed with the manager. As he recalled the mont, he felt astonished by himself.
He felt astonished to have talked with such a great manager without being intimidated.
'Just how was I able to talk to him so comfortably?' Hiro felt puzzled and astonished by the earlier conversation. 'Just when did I grow this much?'
The more he thought about it the more he felt puzzled. Unable to figure it out, he stopped pondering about it.
With a carefree attitude, he revealed a sigh, "Sigh! Seems like I'll have to procure so result
in this season to convince the fans."
Right now, he was lying on the bed with his back flat against the mattress.
Throwing himself up, he stood and said, "Yosh! Let's go train."
He was pulsating with energy and determination.
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