Diego Simeone reveals the reason why he is fondly called as 'El Cholo'

Atletico Mrid manager Diego Simeone is fondly called as ‘El Cholo’ by club fans. However, very few know about reason for this nickname. Argentine players and managers are known by nicknames such as El Pulga, El Loco and El Fideo among ors. Here’s why Simeone is called ‘El Cholo’.

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Why Diego Simeone is called El Cholo?

El Cholo is not a shortened version of Diego Simeone’s name, nor does it have any particular meaning. However, manager has himself opened up on his nickname while speaking to media outlet El Larguero. Simeone stated that re was an Argentine player called Carmelo Simeone during 1970s, who was called as Cholo by his fans. Carmelo played as a right-back for Boca Juniors, while also making a few appearances for Argentine national team.

Diego Simeone claims that around 1985, when he was with Argentina youth team, a manager named Victorio Spinetto called him Cholo. It became usual term to dress him. However, when quizzed if Cholo meant something, Diego Simeone looked clueless.

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Real Mrid fans mock 'El Cholo' during Mrid derby

Diego Simeone was mocked by Real Mrid fans during derby clash between Los Blancos and Atletico Mrid last month. Fans chanted slogans like ‘Cholo Stay’ amid reports of a possible departure of Argentine tactician from Spanish capital.

Atletico Mrid are enduring a difficult campaign this season. Rojiblancos were defeated by city rivals Real Mrid in final of Spanish Super Cup last December. y are placed fourth on LaLiga points table, having bagged 40 points in 24 games this season.

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Atletico vs Liverpool: Round of 16 clash to be played at Wanda Metropolitano

Atletico Mrid are tied against defending European champions Liverpool in first leg of Round of 16 of Champions League. match will be played at Wanda Metropolitano, Spain on Tuesday night (Wednesday according to IST).

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