The Metropolitan resounded again with the classic “U‑ru‑guayo!” when Atlético de Madrid faced Deportivo de La Coruña last Saturday, October 24. The match, which was played in the Andalusian city's stadium, was marked by an emotional ovation for one of the former captains of the red and white club, the Uruguayan Joséma Giménez, who now defends the blue and white at Deportivo.
Before the game started, the Colchonera fans asked through the public address system that tribute be paid to the veteran. A call was made to the fans to applaud Giménez, and the response was immediate: a deafening ovation that accompanied the player as he entered the field. The Uruguayan, who left Atlético just a few months ago, also received applause on several occasions throughout the match, demonstrating the affection that the stands have for him.
From the south end of the stadium, fans raised two banners displaying the message “Uno di noi” (one of us) and “respect to the one who always respected us.” These slogans reflected the feeling of belonging and the recognition that the fans feel for the former captain, who has been an emblematic figure of the club since his arrival in 2013.
Joséma Giménez, who has played more than 380 official matches under the direction of Diego Simeone, has won five titles with Atlético, including two Leagues and a Europa League. Although he has two years left on his contract with the club, the player has declared that his time as a colchonero has ended and that he will not return to Atlético. Even so, the club and its followers will remember him as one of the greats in its history.
The match ended with a result that is not mentioned in the text, but the night was marked by the celebration of Giménez's career and the recognition of his legacy at Atlético de Madrid. With his departure, the club says goodbye to a captain who left an indelible mark on the fans and the history of the team.