Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone faced the media in Barcelona on Tuesday evening ahead of the team’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg on Wednesday.
The coach was asked if the departing Antoine Griezmann is one of the best players he’s ever had. He took the opportunity to speak for nearly two minutes about Griezmann, telling the soon-to-be Orlando City forward “I love you very much” before playfully cautioning him “if you don’t run tomorrow, you won’t play.”
“That’s going to make a few
people jealous, but yes, I’m grateful to have had such a standout player,” Simeone said. “He came in running down the wing (in 2014), and spent three difficult months trying to find his feet, so I told him I saw him playing in a more central position, (which takes) incredible mental energy. Then, on many occasions, he’s been the top scorer for the season, so he’s one of the best I’ve ever had, yes.”
Diego Simeone on how Antoine Griezmann told him he was leaving
“There are conversations that aren’t shared. We’ve spoken at length. He told me how he felt, I understood, and now it’s all about the match.”
Simeone on Barcelona
“They’re a big opponent at a crucial stage of the competition. There are no minor opponents, especially in the quarter-finals and semi-finals. You know Barcelona’s capabilities, how strong they are at home. We’re here to compete and take the game where we believe we can hurt them.”
Simeone on where Barcelona can be hurt
“I hope we can show that tomorrow from 9 p.m.”
Simeone on whether Atleti attack better than they defend
“All teams defend worse when they attack. Barcelona are one of them. They have the ability to score lots of goals and that suits their style of play. We’re in the process of attacking better than we defend.”
Simeone (sarcastically) on players who are one yellow card away from a ban
“I’m not aware of the bookings.”
Simeone on whether knowing a potential semi-final opponent helps
“We know where we stand and who we’re up against. We’re really looking forward to it and we need to keep moving forward.”
Simeone on his words to Griezmann
“It occurred to me six hours ago when I found out he was appearing at this press conference. It was a wonderful opportunity to let the manager step aside and let the person come forward to convey how I feel.”
Simeone on Jan Oblak’s fitness
“He’s better, working very well. I understood he wasn’t 100 percent and, in this case, it’s better for Juan (Musso) to keep playing. Hopefully, we’ll have Oblak in Seville (on Saturday).”
Simeone on dreaming about winning the Champions League
“I’m only thinking about Barcelona.”
Simeone on what he can take from Saturday’s fixture
“The first half or the second? It won’t make much difference.”
