Inheriting his father’s passion and the family’s deep footballing roots, Giuliano Simeone carries a name that echoes through the football world. But beyond the famous surname lies a story few truly know.
Did you know it was Giuliano who convinced his father, Diego, to take the Atlético Madrid managerial job over a decade ago? His journey isn’t just about following in his father’s footsteps. It’s about carving his own path while carrying the Simeone legacy forward.
This isn’t just another tale of a footballing father and son. It’s a story rarely told from Giuliano’s perspective, but one which proves the fact that a father-son duo can thrive at the highest level of the game. Let’s dive into the untold journey of Diego Simeone’s lookalike son, a player who is making his own mark on the beautiful game.
More Than Just a Famous Name: The Untold Story of Giuliano Simeone. Image Credit: Atletico Universe.
Preamble:
When it comes to legendary football families like the Maldinis or the Conceiçãos, one thing stands out and it is the fact that family comes first. Diego Simeone has always been that kind of father. Even before taking the Atlético Madrid job, his priority was clear.
Back in 2011, when Atlético Madrid representatives traveled all the way to Argentina to meet him, they couldn’t find him. Simeone wasn’t in Avellaneda, where he coached Racing Club. Instead, he had taken a trip to Mar del Plata, a beach town in Argentina, to spend time with his 8-year-old son, Giuliano.
Little Giuliano Simeone sat with his dad in a bar, enjoying croissants (a French pastry) plus coffee for Diego and milk for Giuliano. It was a simple, quiet moment, but something weighed on Diego’s mind.
He had a big decision to make. Reports later revealed that Diego never planned to leave Argentina. He wanted to build his coaching career there, even if a giant like Atlético Madrid came knocking.
Lost in thought, he turned to his son and said,
“Giuliano, I have a chance to go to Atlético Madrid in Spain… but Daddy doesn’t know what to do.”
An 8-Year-Old’s Wisdom
Eight-year-old Giuliano, wise beyond his years, thought for a moment. Then, without hesitation, he gave his father the most direct answer.
Looking up at Diego, he asked,
“Dad, are you going to manage Radamel Falcao? Will you be coaching against the great Lionel Messi? And also facing Cristiano Ronaldo?”
Diego Simeone was stunned. His 8-year-old son had just laid it all out for him. Giuliano’s words carried weight, and in that moment, Diego knew he had to say yes.
Did you know? Between dipping his croissant into his milk, little Giuliano had already analyzed the football transfer situation. He understood the stakes in his dad’s coaching career better than most adults.
Looking up at his father, he added one final thought:
“Dad, if you do well at Atlético Madrid, you won’t come back.”
Of course, there were two sides to that statement.
On one hand, it was about luck. Atlético Madrid wasn’t meeting fans’ expectations at the time. Any new coach coming in had to turn things around—fast—or risk getting sacked.
The club had already gone through three managers in 2009 alone—Abel Resino, Santi Denia, and Quique Sánchez Flores. Atlético wasn’t a top contender; they were stuck in mid-table misery.
Atlético Madrid or Family?
Diego Simeone never wanted to leave his family for a tough job in Spain. But he also knew this was an opportunity he couldn’t turn down.
The risk was huge, and he wanted to succeed. Yet, deep down, he feared missing out on watching his kids grow up.
It was little Giuliano who gave him the push he needed. The young boy assured his dad he would succeed, and he showed signs that not having him around for the next few years wouldn’t hurt.
You might not know this, but there’s a whole untold chapter in Giuliano Simeone’s story, one where father and son are not just family but also the ultimate best friends. And yes, they do know when to keep it professional on the pitch.
Giuliano and Diego Simeone, dressed in black and looking every bit like best friends—yet their seamless professionalism on and off the pitch leaves fans wondering how they do it.
Our Focus
This article dives into the journey of a footballer raised in the name of his father and shaped by his footballing DNA. It is the story of a Baller (a carbon copy of his father, El Cholo) who grew up in football, from Diego Simeone’s embrace to carving his own path on the pitch.
We hope to spark your interest as we take you through Giuliano’s world. From a little boy wrapped in his father’s arms to living out his dad’s dreams, playing for his country and shining for Atlético Madrid, this one-time baby son of Diego Simeone has indeed come a long way.
From His Father’s Arms to His Own Legacy: The Journey of Giuliano Simeone. Image Credit: Instagram/giulisimeon,
Inside Giuliano’s Childhood:
Giuliano Simeone Baldini was born on December 18, 2002, in Rome, Italy. His parents, Caroline Baldini and Diego Simeone, welcomed him into the world while his father was playing for Lazio. He is one of three brothers—Giuliano, Giovanni, and Gianluca—born from his parents’ marriage. Here’s a glimpse of them in their early years, back when their family was still together before the divorce.
Once a Power Couple: Diego Simeone and Caroline Baldini in Their Happier Years.
Growing Up Years:
When Giuliano was just four, he moved back to Argentina with his mom. His dad, Diego “El Cholo” Simeone, didn’t want to be alone in Italy. As his playing career neared its final chapter, Diego made a big decision—to leave Europe and return home. He signed with Racing Club, not just to finish his career but to stay close to his family. More than anything, he wanted to raise his son in his own image. And guess what? He did exactly that.
Through every triumph, Diego Simeone always knew that his greatest victories were the moments spent with his sons.
The Beginnings of a Passionate Journey
Giuliano’s football journey started early in Argentina after his family moved back when he was just four. From day one, his dad, Diego, became his first coach, passing down his love for the beautiful game. Discipline was key in the Simeone household. Diego expected nothing less than excellence, especially from his eldest son. But when it came to Giuliano, the youngest and the baby of the family, Diego had a special bond—one that shaped the future footballer he would become.
Young Giuliano proudly sporting Atlético Madrid colors as he bonds with his dad, dreaming of his own football journey.
Giuliano’s path to professional football took an exciting turn when his dad took the Atlético Madrid job. Suddenly, he was surrounded by top football stars. He watched Griezmann closely during his first spell at the club, studying his every move. Growing up, he admired Antoine Griezmann. Also, Roberto Firmino for his selfless play alongside Salah and Mané. But one of his biggest influences? The Governor himself—Diego Costa. Playing under his dad’s command, Costa became a player young Giuliano learned a lot from, shaping his style as a forward.
Giuliano alongside ‘The Governor’ Diego Costa, learning to become a fine striker from one of Atlético’s fiercest warriors.
His Family Background: Rooted in Love, Strength, and Support:
The Simeone family is a prime example of a close-knit, successful footballing household. They’re known for their unity and strength as a family. While fans often focus on Giuliano and his dad, Diego, this is the perfect time to shine a light on the entire Simeone household and what makes them so special.
The Simeone family: A united front, capturing the strength and love that binds them together.
Let’s start with Giuliano’s mom, Caroline Baldini, who is absent form the picture above. She’s known as the ex-wife of Atlético Madrid’s manager and once worked as a model for an Argentine agency. Caroline, or “La Chola” as she’s called in Argentina, was born in Buenos Aires in December 1976. She met Diego Simeone when she was 19 at a popular nightclub in Argentina. They dated for two years before marrying on July 22, 1994. As of now, Caroline and Diego are divorced. After their split, she began a relationship with Pablo Pereyra, an A320 Captain at Avion Express, who has over 29 years of flying experience.
Caroline Baldini and her boyfriend, Pablo Pereyra, sharing a moment in the cockpit.
After his divorce, Diego Simeone found love with Carla Pereyra, born on September 7, 1987. Carla, a model who worked in Italy and Spain, also studied Art in London and New York. Together, they have two daughters, Francesca and Valentina. Diego and Carla got married in a private ceremony in June 2019 and have been happily living together ever since.
Diego and Carla Simeone celebrating a victorious match with their daughters, Francesca and Valentina, at the stadium after the game.
Giuliano’s success can be credited to the love and guidance from his dad, who he calls the best dad in the world. On the pitch, Diego Simeone is a fierce warrior, but off it, he’s a caring and gentle father. He pours love into his family, always making sure his sons feel supported and cherished. Diego works hard to strengthen the bond with his sons, showing them constant care and attention.
Diego Simeone sharing a joyful moment, laughing and playing with his sons and grandkids—family fun at its best!
You can’t talk about the Simeones without mentioning Natalia. She’s Giuliano’s aunt and one of the most well-known female football agents in the world. Not only does she manage her brother Diego’s coaching career, but she also looks after her nephew’s career. As one of the top Argentine female football agents, Natalia stands out for her impressive professional skills and flair.
Giuliano Simeone with his powerhouse aunt, Natalia – a top football agent and a key figure in his journey.
Laying the Foundation
Giuliano started his journey at River Plate, the same club where stars like Enzo Fernández and Guido Rodríguez made their names before heading abroad. He showed great skill and potential with the ball at his feet. However, his time at the club didn’t leave the best impression. Reports suggested that his heart was elsewhere—more focused on being with his father at Atlético Madrid than fully committing to River Plate.
According to several River Plate executives, Giuliano had made it clear—he wanted to move to Europe to be with his father. In September 2019, the rumors became a reality. He decided to leave River on a free transfer and join Atlético Madrid. Since he didn’t have a professional contract yet, the club had no way to stop him. Their only option was to report the case to FIFA. After some back and forth, FIFA eventually approved the move, and Giuliano joined Atlético’s Juvenil squad—right at the heart of his dad’s footballing world.
Giuliano’s sudden departure didn’t sit well with River Plate’s management and fans. Frustrated, the club demanded financial compensation from Atlético Madrid. After a series of negotiations, Atlético—led by Giuliano’s father, now a top name in Spanish football—agreed to pay $250,000 in training rights. The payment was made when Giuliano signed his first professional contract in September 2020.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities:
Before Giuliano Simeone started playing for Atlético Madrid B, he wasn’t really on the media’s radar. But during the 2021–2022 season, that changed. Suddenly, everyone knew him as the coach’s son. Despite the spotlight, Giuliano wasn’t bothered. He was focused on proving himself, especially to those who thought he was only there because of his father’s influence.
Giuliano was the kind of player who never gave up. He chased lost causes, fought for every ball, created chances, finished them, and left everything on the field. Atlético Madrid B manager Nacho Fernández once said,
“He’s young, but already a true footballer who gives everything you’d want on the pitch.”
More than anything, Giuliano dreamed of making it to senior football with Atlético Madrid. He wasn’t one to back down from his goals. In fact, he was even willing to challenge his father’s stance on not wanting him in the first team. He was determined to earn his place and make his dad proud in an Atlético Madrid shirt.
Research shows that Diego Simeone was never too keen on coaching his own sons, even though he was more than happy to be their father off the pitch. He made this clear back in 2018 when rumors surfaced about Atlético Madrid’s interest in signing his eldest son, Giovanni Simeone, from Fiorentina.
Diego Simeone was never fond of the idea and rejected Atlético Madrid’s advances to sign his son, Giovanni. In an interview with the Spanish press, he shared his thoughts:
“My son Giovanni has everything it takes to play with me, but unfortunately, it will never happen,” said Diego. “It’s very difficult to have a child in the dressing room, both for him and for the relationship he has with the other players.”
In 2018, Diego Simeone made a clear statement to put an end to the rumors. His words echoed through the Atlético academy, with some sources claiming,
“If Giuliano Simeone weren’t the son of the club’s manager, Diego Simeone, he would have zero chance of being talked about in terms of playing in the first team in the future.”
Giuliano’s Path to Success
Giuliano Simeone’s 29 goals for Atlético Madrid B made it clear to fans: he was ready for the big time. He was a rare gem from the academy, a player the club hadn’t seen in years, since Saúl Ñíguez and Koke. He never gives up, fights for every ball, creates chances, and leaves it all on the field. With pressure building from fans and media asking why his son hadn’t made the first team yet, Diego Simeone couldn’t resist anymore. He had to swallow his pride and give Giuliano the chance to shine.
Giuliano Simeone’s hard work, movement, and relentless spirit paid off, earning him a spot in his father’s Atlético Madrid team for four friendlies. His standout performances led to a place in the senior matchday squad for the La Liga campaign. On April 20, 2022, during his debut against Granada, emotions ran high. There was his father, Diego Simeone, speaking to him before sending his son onto the field. It was a powerful moment, marking the journey of little Giuliano—once carried in his father’s arms as a baby—now stepping onto the pitch to begin his senior career with the club his family runs. What an unforgettable moment for both father and son!
A full-circle moment: Diego Simeone, once carrying his son as a child, now ushers him into his senior career, marking a father’s pride and a son’s dream realized. Credit: Futrj Football Channel.
The Big Leap:
Winning over the fans was one thing, but earning a spot in his father’s team was a whole other challenge. Giuliano had to compete with some of the best strikers around—Luis Suarez (who arrived from Barcelona), Joao Felix, Angel Correa, Antoine Griezmann, and Matheus Cunha—none of whom were ready to give up their place. Giuliano knew the only way forward was to work hard and fight for his spot, not rely on his father’s favor. He believed in his own talent and knew his versatility as a forward could give him the edge.
Fast forward to the 2024/2025 season, and Giuliano, alongside Julian Alvarez and Antoine Griezmann, began carrying Atlético Madrid in every match. It was clear—Diego Simeone wasn’t giving his son any special treatment when it came to performance. Giuliano, along with his brother, had already shown they knew how to win trophies since graduating from Atlético’s academy, proving the fans wrong and shutting down any talk of nepotism.
A father and son, united by passion and legacy, share a moment of pure joy as they celebrate an Atlético trophy together. Credit: UOL esporte futebol
From Dreams to Reality:
By the start of 2025, Giuliano Simeone had become Atlético Madrid’s most stylish striker. The son of Cholo Simeone and Carolina Baldini had won the hearts of Argentinians, making his debut for Argentina on November 19, 2024, in a 2026 World Cup qualifier against Peru. On March 25, 2025, to the joy of his family, he scored his first goal for Argentina in a 4–1 victory over Brazil. Now, alongside legends like Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martínez, Giuliano’s fans were eager to know every detail of his life. Behold the rising star with Grit and Flair in his best moments with the La Albiceleste.
Giuliano stood alongside the legend, Lionel Messi, fulfilling his dream of playing with his idol. It was also a moment to remember as he celebrated his first goal for Argentina, marking the beginning of an incredible journey.
The truth is, with him joining the national team, Argentina’s future looks secure in their quest to retain their glory. Giuliano Simeone has the right mindset to rise to the top. Those who know him best say, “He has the talent to go as far as he wants, and the mentality to keep growing early in his career. He’s a young man hungry for more, yet humble enough to learn and grow step by step.” And as they say, the rest is now history.
Who is Irene Ariza?
Irene Ariza, the beautiful daughter-in-law of ‘Cholo’ Simeone, has been in a relationship with Giuliano for years. She’s a business graduate with a degree in Business Administration and Management. Irene is from Madrid, Spain, and grew up with her sister, Lucia Ariza, in a Spanish family. Today, she and Giuliano enjoy a comfortable life together in Madrid.
Meet Irene Ariza, the future daughter-in-law of Atlético Madrid’s legendary coach, Diego Simeone.
Irene Ariza isn’t just a business graduate—she’s also a Spanish influencer and YouTuber. With Giuliano becoming a household name in Spanish football, she’s gained more spotlight. As he rose to fame as Atlético Madrid’s most fashionable striker, fans started to take a closer look at her, especially through her social media. As of 2025, Irene and Giuliano are still not married, but it’s clear from the way they’re enjoying life together that marriage is likely the next step.
A peaceful moment of love: Irene Ariza and Giuliano Simeone relax on the bed, sharing a cozy cuddle with their dog.
For football fans curious about Giuliano Simeone’s love life, it’s clear that Irene Ariza is fully accepted by the entire Simeone family, including her future mother-in-law. She also has a great relationship with Carolina Baldini, ex-wife of Diego “Cholo” Simeone, who has praised her multiple times on social media.
Irene Ariza and Carolina Baldini share a joyful moment, radiating warmth and a bond. Source: IG/ireneeariza_/
The Life of Giuliano Simeone: Who He Is Off the Football Field
Outside of football, Giuliano Simeone is calm, humble, and family-focused. His siblings describe him as generous, sensitive, and someone who can block out distractions to focus on what truly matters. He loves animals and shares a special bond with his dog, Indio. When he’s not on the pitch, Giuliano enjoys the sea, hanging out with family, notably his father, and playing video games. He values family deeply and stays true to his promise to his dad: to be the perfect striker and a loving son and best friend off the field. Here is a powerful father-son duo, effortlessly bonding by the sea, yet always keeping things professional when they step on the pitch.
Whether it’s enjoying the sea together or focusing on football, their bond is unbreakable, proving they can balance family and professionalism with ease. Image: Instagram/giulisimeone
Untold Facts:
In the final section of Giuliano Simeone’s biography, we’re about to reveal some interesting truths you might not know about him. Let’s dive in!
How much does Giuliano Simeone earn?
Giuliano Simeone started with a modest salary at Atlético Madrid, earning a decent salary of €9,615 per week, according to Capology’s report. This amounts to around €500,000 annually. Upon graduation from the academy, Diego Simeone placed his son on a decent salary, one that’s typical for academy graduates at the club.
His senior career journey began with a humble €9,615 per week salary, a reflection of his academy roots at Atlético Madrid. Source: Capology
According to salary data from Capology, as of 2025, he’s not among the highest earners at the club, with players like Jan Oblak, Antoine Griezmann, and Conor Gallagher topping the list. With his growing rise in the team, it’s only a matter of time before Atlético Madrid will need to boost his wages. Soon enough, he could be earning big bucks, similar to players like Rodrigo de Paul and Marcos Llorente.
With top earners like Griezmann and De Paul leading the pack, it’s clear the club needs to act soon to reward Giuliano’s impressive progress. Credit: Capology
Giuliano Simeon FIFA FC25 Stats:
Giuliano Simeone is a footballer with huge potential, especially as a supporting striker or second forward. In FIFA FC25, his movement stats stand out with an acceleration of 84, sprint speed of 85, agility of 82, and balance of 82. But what really surprises is his jump power—an impressive 86%, considering he stands at just 1.73m (5 ft 8 in). His stats here remind fans of Mikel Oyarzabal and Omar Marmoush – a rare breed of strikers known for their incredible versatility!
His FIFA FC25 card highlights his exceptional movement with 84 acceleration, 85 sprint speed, and an impressive 86% jump power—surprising for his height! Image: SOFIFA
What is Giuliano Simeone’s religion?
Like most Argentines, Giuliano Simeone identifies as Roman Catholic. However, he’s among those who prefer to keep their religious beliefs private, not making public displays on social media or the field, unlike some players like Willian Pacho and Trevoh Chalobah.
EndNote:
Every time the name “Simeone” is mentioned, football fans are reminded of Diego, the legendary coach of Atlético Madrid, and Giovanni, the forward who debuted with the red band in 2013 before moving to Italian giants Napoli. This article has uncovered the story of Giuliano, another member of the Simeone dynasty, who carries a legacy of wealth and a journey that few truly remember.
Thanks for taking the time to read our version of Giuliano Simeone’s biography. We aim for accuracy and fairness as we share stories of rising football stars, just like we have done for names like Liam Delap and Igor Jesus. If you notice anything that doesn’t seem right about the youngest son of Diego and his ex-wife, Carolina Baldini, feel free to reach out. Stay tuned for more exciting football stories about versatile strikers, all featured in our category!
