Few players have committed themselves to Atlético, this new Atlético, as much as Tiago Mendes has. Cholo has said on numerous occasions that he would very much like the man who he named captain to stay on at the Manzanares club. The player's contract runs out on 30th June and the manager sees him as an important part of the team, both on the pitch and in the dressing room. Tiago, however, has decided to try his luck with Mourinho.

After the final in Lisbon, in the mixed zone Tiago commented that he had already made his mind up about his future, but that he would communicate his decision to the club first. He feels as much a 'rojiblanco' as any of the Atléti players, but he knows that he has in his hands his last chance to net himself a killer contract.

The player will tell his club in the very near future, perhaps today. His age (33) has had a lot to do with his decision. Tiago's heart is telling him to stay with the club that he loves so dearly, but his head has itself set on a great contract, perhaps the last in the player's career. Chelsea is the club that fits the bill.

Last season, despite having to accept a drop in salary and with various succulent offers on the table from English and Turkish clubs, Tiago decided to stay on at Atlético. Today, the club wants the midfielder to continue, even for two seasons more, but with an offer far below those coming in from abroad.