Maniche makes his peace with Atletico

Atletico Madrid’s Portugal international Maniche, loaned out to Inter Milan last season after a falling out with manager Javier Aguirre, says he wants to see out his contract with the Spanish club.

The midfielder told Atletico’s website on Friday: “When I came here (in 2006) I signed for three years, with the intention of doing that. I would like to continue this great project.

“There’s been a lot of talk about my leaving the club but the most important thing is that I want to stay. That’s a decision that doesn’t only depend on me, but I want to do everything possible to remain.”

Of his clash with Aguirre he added: “When I’m in the wrong I recognise it. It’s important to know when you’ve made a mistake and to sort things out.”

Maniche did not join the Atletico on its pre-season tour of Mexico as the club was in the process of trying to negotiate his departure without yet having found a buyer.