Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone faced the media ahead of Saturday evening’s fixture against unbeaten Villarreal, and he used the opportunity to address the challenges that have impacted his team as they remain without a victory after three games.
The coach explained that the players used the break to prepare, as he said “we have tried to visualize the mistakes that prevented us from securing more points, and try to focus our work on that area”, which he described as “the most important part” of
preparations.
“Some players have arrived tired from playing with their national teams, with aches and pains,” Simeone continued. “Let’s hope they can be in top form for the game.”
Diego Simeone on Nico Gonzalez
“He arrives with enthusiasm, with excitement… Conor (Gallagher) trained very well and we know what he can give us. Either one can play (in left midfield) and whoever we decide on, hopefully he’ll do his best.”
Diego Simeone on needing the fans
“I don’t wait, because when you wait in life, you despair. I think that’s how the saying goes. We need to work so that people feel identified with the team. As for the affection shown to me, I am infinitely grateful. Since I arrived as a player in 1994, I have received affection, love, respect… It is up to me to continue giving people what they expect from the team.”
Diego Simeone on the Metropolitano hosting the Champions League final in 2027
“It’s an important point for the club, above all, and I imagine they’ll be happy.”
Diego Simeone on whether he’s happy with his squad
“If the president says that (we have a great squad to fight for everything), he means it.”
Diego Simeone on feeling relief, not happiness, when he wins
“We have built a huge legacy and we have to maintain it. It’s not easy, but we have to maintain it. I am the most closely-watched person and I take full responsibility.”
Diego Simeone on Thiago Almada
“They are international players, they can go through these situations… Almada is an important player for the squad, he joins Baena, who is trying to recover. We have to live with what happens. That’s why we need to have a large squad.”
Diego Simeone on Marc Pubill
“There is a clear reason why Giménez has not participated in training. I understand that (Pubill) played as a full-back, I see him as an option to help us out if we need a center back… He works with enthusiasm and dedication, and the pitch will determine the needs of each team.”
Diego Simeone on Villarreal
“They play a very defined style, very closed (in defense), to launch counterattacks with speed down the wings. With our weapons, our tools, we want to hurt our opponents.”
