On Monday, Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez announced his intention to stay with Atletico Madrid next year. He was instrumental in helping the side secure their first La Liga title in seven seasons, a feat capped off by a final-day victory against Valladolid that left Real Madrid trailing by two points.
After helping Atletico Madrid win their first La Liga title in seven years, Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez announced on Monday that he will remain at the club next season. Atletico Madrid defeated Valladolid on the final day of the league to edge their arch-rivals Real Madrid by two points.
Atletico's 11th league title marks the end of a seven-year stranglehold on the Spanish league by the giants of Madrid and Barcelona. In the period since 2014, Barcelona had won the league four times and Real Madrid twice.
After arriving as a free agent, Suarez enjoyed a prolific debut season with Atletico, finding the back of the net 21 times in the league. This follows a shocking departure from Barcelona, who released him against his will. The decision was widely panned, most notably by Lionel Messi, who used social media to voice his anger toward the Catalan management.
In an interview with Movistar Plus, the 24-year-old stated, \"I’m sure (I’ll stay).\"
Suarez mentioned that he felt welcomed by the club from the very first moment he stepped onto the pitch. He even jokingly asked about getting a spot in Atletico's museum to ensure he becomes a part of the club's lasting history.
Speaking to Marca, Suarez opened up about how being underestimated and the struggles he faced eventually led him to Atletico. He admitted that this tumultuous period took a toll on his family, noting that his children, in particular, suffered the most throughout his professional journey.
Suarez pointed out that their championship win was a result of their collective consistency and ability to overcome adversity. He highlighted that the team operated with exceptional efficiency during the first half of the season.
The past year has been a whirlwind for Suarez, who has now secured his fifth Spanish league title. After Barcelona surprisingly allowed the Uruguayan to leave before the season started, Atletico moved quickly to sign him for a bargain fee of €7 million.