This was one of those times when I wish I was wrong.  A week ago I reported that Simão had signed for Atletico de Madrid, and today we had official confirmation of the deal.  Simão, the pilar of Benfica over the last 7 years is already in Madrid and has signed a 5 year deal with Atletico Madrid.  Financial this was an excellent deal for SL Benfica.   The deal, valued at 25 million Euros,  20 million of which in cash, and 5 million in 2 players to be named later, is by far the biggest deal in Benfica history.  The previous high for a Benfica sale was when Tiago went to Chelsea for 12.5 million Euros.

Simão came to Benfica from Barcelona FC in 2000 for 12 million Euros.  He leaves us after winning one Liga Championship, one Portugal Cup and one Portugal Super Cup.  He also very often the top scorer on the team. Simão also helped push Benfica closer to the top over the last few years in EUFA play.

This was a sad day for me, and the only remotely positive thing I can get out of this is that I will probably have a chance to see Simão play for Atletico, since I go to Madrid quite often.