Two former Atletico Madrid youth players, Quinton Fortune and Veljko Paunovic, now coaching colleagues, have reflected on their early experiences training under Diego Simeone at the Spanish club, highlighting the toughness and leadership qualities he displayed both as a player and manager.
In the mid-1990s, Fortune, a South African from Cape Flats, and Paunovic, a Serbian who grew up amid the turmoil of the former Yugoslavia, joined Atletico’s first-team training as 18-year-olds. Both players quickly learned the demanding style of Simeone, then a key midfielder, known for his intense, combative approach and vocal leadership. Fortune recalls how Simeone would push young players hard in training, earning a reputation as a “tough character.” Despite this, Fortune and Paunovic embraced the challenge, matching Simeone’s intensity and forming a lasting bond.
Simeone’s playing peak coincided with Atletico’s historic 1995-96 season, in which the club secured a league and cup double, a rare achievement in its history. Fortune, who joined in January 1996, described his early career as a whirlwind, progressing from debutant to champion in a short time. However, Atletico suffered a sharp decline soon after, culminating in relegation in the 1999-2000 season. By then, Simeone had moved on to Italian football, while Fortune had signed with Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson.
Fortune’s tenure at United, spanning 126 appearances, was defined by adaptability and perseverance in a team fresh off a historic treble. He often played multiple positions, which he credits for his successful run, including three Premier League titles. He now serves as assistant coach alongside Paunovic for the Serbian national team, their fourth joint coaching assignment. Their managerial careers have taken them through clubs in England, Mexico, Spain, and international football.
Both Fortune and Paunovic underscore the importance of managerial authority and patience, qualities they attribute to Simeone’s success at Atletico and Ferguson’s legacy at United. Simeone’s 15-year stint as Atletico’s head coach stands out in modern football, marked by two La Liga titles, four European trophies, and two Champions League final appearances. This contrasts sharply with United’s post-Ferguson era, which has seen frequent managerial changes and limited silverware, including no league titles since Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
Fortune praised Simeone’s relentless work ethic and demanding standards, noting Atletico’s identity as a high-pressing, hardworking team. He acknowledged the club’s ability to blend toughness with style, referencing a recent win over Real Madrid that positioned Atletico as title contenders behind Barcelona in La Liga. Fortune also mentioned the careful reintegration of Julián Alvarez, whose summer transfer sagas complicated his relationship with the club and supporters.
Looking ahead to Manchester United’s Champions League clash at the Metropolitano Stadium, Fortune expressed interest in watching Simeone, who is managing his 133rd European competition game, face Michael Carrick, the former United midfielder undertaking only his third fixture in charge. While Simeone and Carrick present differing managerial styles, Fortune commended Carrick’s efforts in reinstating United’s identity and culture, emphasizing the challenge Carrick faces against a formidable Atletico side currently in strong form. Given recent performances and circumstances, Fortune suggested Atletico may enter the match as favourites.