Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone remains focused on the task at hand as he spoke to the media before the Copa del Rey final against Real Sociedad.
El Cholo was keen to play down the effects of any hangover from Tuesday night’s Champions League quarterfinal against Barcelona.
“We know how special it is for any athlete to play in a final, both the Real players and our own are incredibly excited,“ Simeone said from Sevilla. ”They’ll give everything to win.
“On Tuesday we played an important match, it
put us in a great position with a Champions League semifinal, but now we’re back down to earth. That’s what counts, and here we are, we know the challenges we’re going to face,” Simeone said.
On Saturday’s opponent, Simeone insisted that “Real Sociedad knows how to play, knows how to fight, and has different ways of attacking, inside and out wide, with young players. We expect nothing less than to try to take the game where we believe we can do damage.”
Diego Simeone on what’s changed since 2013
“People are always evolving, they’re not always the same. You’re 20, 30, 40… It’s the same for a coach, and for a player too. We’ve grown alongside the opportunities the club has given us, always staying true to a vision, a plan, a quest. So in that regard, we’ve changed very little.”
Simeone on his message to Atleti fans
“Thank you. Just thank you. I can’t say anything other than thank you, thank you, and thank you for all the support I’ve received since I arrived in 1994, then when I returned at the end of my playing career, and throughout the process when I came back as a coach, despite the difficulties we faced, and for being able to witness the club’s growth. Thank you.”
Simeone on how he feels to be so close to winning
“Excitement, enthusiasm, faith, humility, and confidence.”
Simeone on what this final means
“It reflects a process that’s evolving, a process that shows that consistency, humility, hard work, and that knowing where to go can lead to a path, which is one that isn’t always what you want initially, but eventually you find what you’re looking for.”
Simeone on looking back on the Copa run
“I always imagine the best, I have no other thought but the best. Obviously, it’s not just about winning a Copa del Rey, it’s a purpose we have for a lot of things.”
Simeone on how he’ll prepare for the final
“It varies, depending on the moment. I’m quiet, calm, reserved, thinking, knowing that my role is important, but the players are the ones who make the difference. I’m here to support them so they can show what they’re capable of.”
Simeone on injured players
“Everyone who’s in the squad tomorrow is here because we believe they can help us. Pablo Barrios will be with us.”
Simeone on the importance of having played in finals before
“There’s no rule, I always say that age doesn’t matter. It’s just as useful to be 18 as it is to be 35 with a great head on your shoulders. The toughest match is the one inside their heads. Those who handle it best during the game will come out on top.”
