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Maniche apologises to Atletico

Image: Maniche: Made peace with boss

Maniche says that he wants to see out his contract at Atletico Madrid, despite last season's bust-up.

Portuguese midfielder keen to remain in Spain

Maniche says that he wants to see out his contract at Atletico Madrid, despite last season's bust-up. The Portugal midfielder fell out with manager Javier Aguirre and spent the second half of the 2007/08 season on loan at Serie A champions Inter Milan. It was widely expected that the 30-year-old would secure a permanent move away from the Spanish capital this summer, but he insists that he has no plans to leave. "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," he said. "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 here."

Mistake

Maniche also confirmed that he has made peace with Mexican coach Aguirre. "When I'm in the wrong I recognise it," he said. "It's important to know when you've made a mistake and to sort things out." Despite his desire to stay at Vicente Calderon, Maniche was left out of the club's squad for the recent pre-season tour of Mexico as they searched for a buyer. Having had no takers Atletico may now be willing to keep the midfielder as they will need plenty of strength in depth if they are to make an impact in the UEFA Champions League next season.

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