Atlético Madrid’s coach sees the Barcelona match as a crucial moment in the title race.
Even three days after the Madrid Derby, the controversy refuses to fade. Every time an Atlético Madrid player faces the media, the topic of Julián Álvarez’s double-touch during the penalty shootout resurfaces. But Diego Simeone has made it clear—he doesn’t want to dwell on it anymore. Instead, he has urged his team to move forward and focus on the upcoming challenge against Barcelona, putting the Champions League ‘injustice’ behind them.
The painful Champions League exit against Real Madrid still lingers, with Atlético feeling they were wronged. However, Simeone insists that his players must push past the disappointment and shift their focus to the battles ahead.
During the penalty shootout at the Wanda Metropolitano, Álvarez’s slip caused him to touch the ball twice before scoring, leading to the goal being overturned after VAR intervention. The decision had a massive impact on the game. But ahead of Sunday’s clash with Barcelona, Simeone addressed the issue for what he claims will be the final time.
“The only power I have is to ensure that my team competes. I understand our fans’ frustration, anger, and sense of injustice.”
“I won’t talk about the last match anymore. Now, we need to focus on the next game. We have a great opportunity ahead against a very strong opponent playing excellent football. Our focus is on ourselves and showing our fans that we can keep competing.”
Currently, Real Madrid leads the table with 60 points from 28 matches. Barcelona sits second with 57 points from 26 games, while Atlético is third with 56 points from 27 matches.
The 54-year-old Argentine coach believes that the clash with Barcelona could have a significant impact on the title race.
“As the season progresses, maintaining the right distance in the points table is always crucial. From our perspective, winning this match would help close the gap. If they win, they will take another step toward the title.”
“Everything about Barcelona concerns us. They are a complete and fantastic team, and they handled last week brilliantly.”
With both teams determined to stay in the title hunt, this match is set to be a high-stakes battle.
