(foto: Getty Images)
As the club season draws to a close, Jan Oblak has finally addressed the growing speculation surrounding his future at Atletico Madrid.
After 12 remarkable seasons with the Spanish giants, the Slovenian goalkeeper admitted that nothing is set in stone, stating that "the summer can bring many things." Although his contract runs for another two seasons, a departure from the Metropolitano is looking increasingly possible.
The Two Major Roadblocks: Salary and Juan Musso
As previously reported by Nogomania, Jan Oblak’s future in Madrid is complicated by two major factors:
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The Financial Burden: The 33-year-old’s current salary sits at a staggering €20 million gross per year, a heavy weight for Atletico's balancing act.
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The Rise of a Deputy: During Oblak's recent injury struggles, Argentine goalkeeper Juan Musso stepped into the spotlight and proved to the board that the Slovenian icon can be reliably replaced between the sticks.
Oblak: "The Club Has the Final Say"
Currently on international duty with Slovenia ahead of friendlies against Cyprus and Croatia, Oblak spoke directly to Slovenian media about what lies ahead.
"Honestly, whatever happens, will happen. I don't have a massive influence over it," Oblak admitted. "I know the rumors are interesting, but I am focused on the pitch. I have a contract, and I’ve been at this club for 12 years. I have always respected my contract and I always will. I still want to win trophies that I haven't won yet, but the club has the final say."
Despite the uncertainty, the former Benfica and Olimpija Ljubljana shot-stopper remains confident in his abilities and has no intention of stepping down from elite European football.
"The club makes the decisions. As far as I'm concerned, I feel fantastic and I can definitely play at the highest level for a few more years," Oblak concluded.