Simeone Discusses Atlético's Attack: David's Situation and Álvarez's Growth

Diego Simeone addressed the media on the eve of Atlético Madrid's Champions League opener against Liverpool at Anfield. When asked about his expectations for the match, Simeone stated, "I can imagine many types of games, but reality is what you see on the field. Then there's the real game, when you start playing, and many things happen that don't depend on imagination but on what actually transpires on the pitch."

Atlético's Attacking Options: David, Álvarez, and Sorloth

Facing Liverpool's new manager, Iraola, Simeone observed, "I see he's trying to convey what he's already done at his previous clubs. He works very well on the collective and tactical aspects of all players. It takes time to find the right path, but the team is growing and improving. He has players of great quality. He's an important coach with clear ideas, and he'll succeed in conveying his vision to the players." Regarding his own attacking lineup, Simeone commented on David and Álvarez: "Jonathan has just arrived. Julián is in a phase of growth and I don't see him ready to start tomorrow. I'm sure, however, that he'll help us during the game." Addressing Sorloth's condition, he added, "He's in Madrid, so given the distance, it's unlikely he'll be available tomorrow. He's recovering and is very important for us. He gives us characteristics that, at the moment, we don't have within the squad."

Simeone's Admiration for Liverpool

On the Champions League, with the final being held at the Wanda Metropolitano, Simeone emphasized, "It's very important for the club that the final is played there. However, we still have a lot of work to do. We are in a phase of growth: there are many new players, there's Julián's situation, and there are players who returned late from international duty. No one cares, but this is the reality. We need to proceed step by step and gradually find our identity." Regarding the recent La Liga setback and a perceived lack of motivation, he clarified, "It wasn't what happened in Bilbao. It was a lapse in concentration, and we lost a game we had under control. Tomorrow will be a wonderful stadium, with a very intense start to the game. We'll see if we're prepared this time." Simeone also stated, "I still don't know what it means to attack or defend. I don't think in terms of styles, but in terms of teams. There are aggressive teams, like Liverpool, and like Atlético has tried to be in recent years." What he respects most about Liverpool, he said, is "the enthusiasm of their youth. That's an advantage over me."