Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has stressed the necessity for his team to effectively control their emotions to secure a victory against Arsenal in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday. He also shared updates on the fitness of three key players, noting that Julian Alvarez’s recovery is a significant concern for the club.
Speaking before Atletico’s training session at the Emirates on Monday evening, Simeone acknowledged that his influence on the game diminishes once the match begins.
“Regardless of how much we analyze it, football ultimately rests with the players. We must manage our emotions effectively for the game to unfold ideally. The game transforms the moment it starts; experience and time foster greater composure – not necessarily ease, but the peace of mind crucial for facing a match like tomorrow’s.”
He added with a smile, referencing an impressive second-half performance in Madrid, “I’m going to try to get them to repeat the second half. If it’s that simple, it would be great.”
‘We just want the game to start’ – Diego Simeone
Simeone appeared relaxed in the pre-match buildup, showing no inclination to provoke controversy.
“You’re seeking a headline or a phrase that breaks the mold, but for coaches and players, we simply want the game to commence. It’s a football match, and the better team will emerge victorious. We will endeavor to leverage our strengths, and the Arsenal manager will aim to maximize theirs.”
When questioned about the team’s decision to change hotels compared to their previous 4-0 defeat in the Champions League group stage, Simeone humorously explained:
“We are in a better situation now than we were in October. And the hotel was cheaper. That’s why we changed (laughs).”
Simeone on Sorloth, Giuliano and Julian Alvarez fitness
Atletico Madrid faces uncertainty regarding the fitness of three players for the upcoming match, with Julian Alvarez being the most doubtful, followed by Alexander Sorloth and Giuliano Simeone.
“They moved around a bit yesterday; they are better. We hope they can train well, and we will decide on the starting lineup tomorrow morning. Julian [Alvarez] is very familiar with the English league. Last week’s game was very good, and hopefully, he can perform as the game requires.”
Regarding potential refereeing concerns for the match, Diego Simeone responded simply with “No.”
‘The result won’t depend solely on us’
On the subject of managing the emotional aspects of the game, Simeone reiterated his strategy without appearing overly confident.
“We will aim to play the game that is necessary, with the intensity and understanding that the match demands. We have significant faith in our approach, convinced and certain of our objectives for this match, and the outcome will not rest entirely on our shoulders.”
Arsenal is scheduled to face Atletico Madrid at the Emirates at 21:00 CEST on Tuesday night. While the Gunners are considered slight favorites, Los Colchoneros are feeling optimistic about their prospects against an Arsenal side they managed to pressure in the first leg.
