Another loss for Atlético Madrid left a distraught Diego Simeone facing the media, this time following a 3-2 defeat to Elche in La Liga.
When asked if his team had less at stake than Elche, and whether that factor was behind the defeat to a side that began the round in the relegation zone, Simeone hit back by insisting that Atlético “started the match well; we believed we could compete.
“We gave it our all to take at least a point, but the team couldn’t win and the responsibility lies entirely with me,” he said.
“I’m always optimistic about what lies ahead. I have absolute faith in the players. They’ll get through the situations we’re currently facing. I have complete confidence in them.”
“The important thing is that he feels like a footballer again. It’s been a long time, he’s coming back, he’s getting better. That’s one of the few positives from the match.”
“I went over so the players wouldn’t get yellow cards. I didn’t hear what they were saying.”
“He’s got plenty of room for growth, a desire to improve. He has personality, intensity, quality… and obviously time will give him the chance to prove everything I’m saying.”
Rodrigo Mendoza assist for Nico is sublime tbh🙌🔥pic.twitter.com/2F5FNuKRqm https://t.co/kwxzDjm6ff
“Nothing to add. We respect the referees’ decisions. There’s not much more to say.”
Omg NICO GONZALEZ IS INSANE HOW TF DID HE DO THAT?????😳2-2 ATLETICO MADRID pic.twitter.com/9Ch9oYCX31
“He did a good job. All 10 players worked very hard, giving it their all, but it wasn’t enough to secure a draw.”
“We have to start fresh tomorrow. On Saturday, we’ll be back competing in the league.”