Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone previewed Thursday’s Spanish Super Cup semi-final against Real Madrid in Jeddah by addressing questions from the media, including several on the questionable form of Julián Alvarez.
When asked how he’s managing the situation, Simeone said, “well, in different ways, depending on how I read him.” He explained “I think sometimes you don’t need to talk, sometimes you need to get closer and not talk about football, sometimes you need to get closer and talk about other things in life, which are also very important.
“I think we handle it with the naturalness that, beyond a football player, there is a person, and I think the most important thing is that the person is okay.”
Diego Simeone on Julián Alvarez
“There’s no point repeating what I’ve said. Words come naturally, and at that moment, what I said just came out. Julián has proven himself as a footballer, and words are often not enough. Only actions matter, and let’s hope he has a great game tomorrow.”
Diego Simeone on whether previous results influence the game
“Look, I always think the same, whether it’s for or against us. Every game that starts is different from all the previous ones. I don’t think the game we played at the Metropolitano will have anything to do with the game we’re going to play tomorrow. Each team has its strengths. We’ll have to play the game we believe in to stay in this competition.”
Diego Simeone on Pablo Barrios’ absence and the alternatives
“I don’t think Barrios’ characteristics are similar to (Thiago) Almada’s. One is a more-defensive midfielder and the other is an attacking midfielder, so they’re not competing for the same place. Beyond that, we have the option of playing (Marcos) Llorente as an inside forward, as he has done on many occasions. We have Conor Gallagher, we have Johnny Cardoso, and tomorrow we’ll decide who we think will be best for the team in that position.”
Diego Simeone on Alexander Sørloth and his fit with Julián
“I think Alexander Sørloth has been, since he arrived, at his most consistent level of play for me. The truth is that he gives us different options to the other forwards we have in attack. We need him to continue with the same ambition and hunger he’s showing. His physical strength obviously gives us different ways to attack. We need him as he is because the team needs this Sørloth, of course.”
Diego Simeone on Saudi Arabia as a host for major tournaments
“There are people prepared to make decisions about who is ready and who is not. Every time we’ve come to play in Saudi Arabia, the truth is that, as Koke said, we’ve been welcomed in the best possible way, we’ve been treated spectacularly. Hopefully, if the World Cup is here, it will be the best it can be for everyone in the country.”
Diego Simeone on his goal for the future
“(Mockingly) What is your goal for the future? What is your goal for the future? What is your goal for the future?”
