Atletico Madrid still has a chance to contend for the LaLiga title, according to manager Diego Simeone. This statement comes after a poor stretch of results caused them to fall behind rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as being ousted from both the Champions League and the Copa del Rey.
The team currently sits in third place with 57 points, trailing the leaders Barcelona by nine points and six behind Real Madrid, ahead of their upcoming match against mid-table Sevilla on Sunday.
With just nine matches to go, LaLiga remains their sole opportunity for silverware this season before they participate in the Club World Cup scheduled from June 14 to July 13.
Atletico’s departure from the Champions League followed a defeat to Real Madrid last month, and this week they also faced elimination from the Copa del Rey at the hands of Barcelona.
Seeking to regain their footing in LaLiga, Simeone’s squad will aim to bounce back after a 1-1 draw against 15th-placed Espanyol, which extended their winless streak in the league to three games.
“The team is functioning well, and our focus is now on LaLiga. We must compete until the very end to the best of our ability,” Simeone told reporters on Saturday. When questioned about the team’s potential to challenge for the title, he responded with a definitive, “Yes.”
With supporters expressing concerns over the prospect of a fourth successive season without a trophy, Simeone, who has helmed Atletico since 2011, asserted that there is still significant potential for improvement in his team, emphasising the legacy he has cultivated at the club.
“Since my arrival at Atletico, I’ve always sought continuous growth, and I believe there’s still much further to go. What used to be mere ‘hopes and maybes’ have transformed into genuine possibilities,” he stated.
“However, the most crucial aspect is the legacy we are creating,” he maintained, having led Atletico to two LaLiga titles—the latest won in the 2020-21 season—as well as two UEFA Europa League trophies among various other accolades.
“We perform admirably against Real Madrid and Barcelona. I told the players recently that I’m proud of them for the legacy they are establishing. The beauty lies in navigating this journey.
“The players have been showing good form, despite the lack of results, so Sevilla will pose a tough challenge.”
Atletico has confirmed that midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and winger Samuel Lino are unlikely to participate in Sunday’s fixture due to minor muscle injuries.
Simeone noted that midfielder Koke may make a return against Sevilla, having not featured in their last nine matches across all competitions due to a muscle issue.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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