Atletico Madrid have confirmed Portugal star Simao Sabrosa is set to leave the club to join Besiktas.
Portuguese ace leaving Atletico
Atletico Madrid have confirmed Portugal star Simao Sabrosa is set to leave the club to join Besiktas.
Turkish side Besiktas have agreed a deal to sign Simao with the 31-year-old set to make the move when the transfer window opens in January.
Simao, who joined Atletico from Benfica in 2007, was given a standing ovation by Atletico fans after being substituted in the 1-0 Copa del Rey win over Espanyol on Wednesday at the Vicente Calderon.
The former Barcelona man admitted it was emotional for him to leave Atletico.
"I don't think I have defrauded anyone," said Simao.
"It is difficult for me, I can hardly speak because since I came to Atletico I have grown and become a better professional.
"When I arrived I said I would do my best to win a title and I eventually ended up with two in Europe (the Europa League and the European Super Cup).
"I have to thank the fans, the support they have given me has been spectacular. I will continue to follow Atletico as a fan myself."
Atletico coach Quique Sanchez Flores paid tribute to Simao's impact at the club.
"It's been an honour to have had him in my team," said Sanchez Flores.
"He has been a spectacular professional with influence both on and off the pitch."
Sanchez Flores added that the club were thinking of buying a player to replace Simao.
