Football
Used To That! Diego Simeone reacts to Barcelona complaint to UEFA
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has commented on Barcelona’s complaint to UEFA after the Catalan side lost to the Rojiblancos.
In what was a thrilling encounter, Barcelona lost 2-0 at home to Atlético Madrid last Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.
However, the Catalonia side were not pleased with the officiating and lodged an official protest with UEFA, citing errors by Romanian referee Stefan Kovacs.
As Atletico turn their attention to Saturday’s La Liga clash with Sevilla, before hosting Barcelona in Tuesday’s return leg, Simeone shrugged off the protest.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Argentine told reporters, “We live in Madrid and we are used to this sort of situation.”
He added, “For those who understand, it’s very simple, and it doesn’t affect us at all.”
Diego Simeone protests against a foul on Antoine Griezmann during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg match against Barcelona. (Photo by Gongora/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The Argentine coach noted, “Are you complaining about the pressure from Real Madrid? I haven’t complained. I was simply responding to a comment made about Barcelona, and I said that we’re used to this sort of thing in Madrid.”
On goalkeeper Oblak’s fitness, he said, “He’s not yet ready to travel with us. He’s very keen, and we’ve had a good chat with him. He’s a very important player for the team and we need him. We hope he’ll be ready on Tuesday.”
On Sevilla’s relegation fight, he admitted, “It’s more complex than a quick answer. I can’t explain everything that’s happening.”
He added that Sevilla had been a significant chapter in his career and personal life, thanking the club and city for their support and wishing them well while still aiming for Atlético’s desired performance on the pitch.
Atlético currently sit fourth in La Liga with 57 points, and will be hoping to get maximum three point against Sevilla currently placed 17th on the log.