Diego Simeone Net Worth

What is Diego Simeone's net worth and salary?

Diego Simeone is an Argentine professional soccer manager and former player who has a net worth of $140 million. Diego Pablo Simeone, nicknamed "El Cholo," stands as one of football's most iconic and transformative managers. Simeone first rose to prominence as a combative, tactically astute midfielder who represented Argentina in three World Cups while enjoying successful club spells with Atlético Madrid, Inter Milan, and Lazio.

However, it is his managerial career that has truly cemented his legendary status. Since taking over Atlético Madrid in December 2011, Simeone has revolutionized the club, transforming a perennial underachiever into a European powerhouse that has consistently challenged the dominance of Real Madrid and Barcelona. Under his guidance, Atlético has won two La Liga titles, two Europa League trophies, reached two Champions League finals, and developed a distinctive, fiercely competitive style of play that mirrors Simeone's own personality. With his passionate touchline presence, tactical discipline, and unwavering commitment, Simeone has become not just Atlético Madrid's most successful coach but one of the defining managerial figures of his generation. Diego is the highest-paid coach in all of sports. He earns a whopping $50 MILLION per year in salary to coach Atletico Madrid.

Early Playing Career

Born on April 28, 1970, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Simeone began his professional career at Vélez Sársfield in 1987 before moving to Pisa in Italy. His tenacious playing style and leadership qualities quickly made him stand out. After stints at Sevilla and Atlético Madrid, where he won a historic league and cup double in 1996, Simeone enjoyed successful periods at Inter Milan and Lazio, winning more silverware in Italy.

As an international, Simeone earned 106 caps for Argentina, participating in three World Cups (1994, 1998, and 2002) and winning two Copa América titles (1991 and 1993). His playing career was marked by both brilliance and controversy, most notably for his involvement in David Beckham's red card at the 1998 World Cup.

Managerial Philosophy

Simeone's coaching approach is built on defensive solidity, tactical discipline, and mental fortitude. He has famously described his philosophy as playing "game by game" (partido a partido), emphasizing immediate focus rather than long-term goals. His teams are known for their rigorous organization, physical intensity, and ability to maximize resources.

Central to Simeone's success is his emotional connection with players. He builds teams with tremendous unity and fighting spirit, often enabling them to exceed expectations against wealthier opponents. While sometimes criticized for defensive tactics, Simeone's Atlético has evolved over the years to incorporate more attacking elements while maintaining their defensive strength.

Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

The Atlético Madrid Revolution

When Simeone returned to Atlético as manager in December 2011, the club was in disarray, struggling near the relegation zone. His impact was immediate. Within months, he led them to the Europa League title, and by 2014, Atlético had achieved the seemingly impossible by winning La Liga ahead of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Under Simeone, Atlético has reached two Champions League finals (2014 and 2016), narrowly losing both to rivals Real Madrid. They claimed a second La Liga title under his guidance in 2021, again overcoming the financial might of Spain's traditional powers.

Beyond trophies, Simeone transformed Atlético's identity and infrastructure. The move to the Wanda Metropolitano stadium in 2017 and consistent Champions League qualification have elevated the club's global profile and financial standing. His tenure represents the most successful period in the club's history.

Highest Paid Coach in the World

Simeone's extraordinary success has made him the highest-paid coach in all of sports. At his peak around 2019 he was earning a staggering $50 million per year in salary to coach Atlético Madrid. This compensation far exceeds that of elite managers in the Premier League, Bundesliga, or even the NFL and NBA, reflecting both his value to Atlético and the club's determination to retain his services.

This enormous salary is justified by the remarkable return on investment Simeone has delivered. Under his management, Atlético has increased its revenue multiple times over through consistent Champions League participation, expanded commercial opportunities, and increased global visibility. Moreover, his ability to develop players has generated hundreds of millions in transfer profits.

Atlético's willingness to make Simeone the world's highest-paid coach also speaks to the stability he provides. While other top clubs frequently change managers, Simeone's long-term presence has allowed for consistent planning and development rarely seen in modern football.

In November 2023, he signed a three-year contract extension with Atlético Madrid, keeping him at the club until 2027. While details were not fully disclosed, Simeone reportedly took a 20% pay cut due to financial concerns, reducing his gross salary from $50 million to approximately $33–35 million per year. Even after this cut, he remains the highest-paid football manager in the world.

How Simeone's Salary Compares to Other Top Football Coaches

Before his pay reduction, Simeone earned €34 million annually, nearly €10 million more than Pep Guardiola ($26.8M/year), and double Jürgen Klopp's salary at Liverpool. After the cut, he still earns around €16.5 million net, maintaining his spot as the best-paid manager in football.

How Simeone Compares to Coaches in Other Sports

Simeone's salary is also higher than any coach in basketball, American football, or baseball:

• NBA: The highest-paid coach, Steve Kerr (Warriors), earns $17.5M per year, about half of Simeone's salary.
• NFL: Andy Reid (Chiefs) and Bill Belichick were the highest-paid at $20–25M/year, still significantly lower than Simeone.
• MLB: The best-paid baseball manager, Craig Counsell (Cubs), earns just $8M/year, about four times less than Simeone.

Personal Life

Off the pitch, Simeone's personal life has been as passionate and eventful as his football career. He has been married twice, first to Carolina Baldini, with whom he has three sons: Giovanni, Gianluca, and Giuliano. All three have followed in their father's footsteps by pursuing careers in football, with Giovanni becoming the most prominent as an international striker for Argentina. After his divorce from Baldini in 2008, Simeone married Argentine model and TV presenter Carla Pereyra in 2019, and they have two daughters together, Francesca and Valentina. Despite his intense public persona, Simeone is known to be a devoted family man who values privacy away from football. His personal motto of loyalty, passion, and commitment appears to extend beyond his professional life, with close friends describing him as fiercely loyal and protective of those in his inner circle.

Who's Richer?

Diego
Simeone

Compare!

David
Beckham