“With Koke suspended, Saúl can give us an extra edge in attack”
Simeone says his team will be aiming to make up for last week's defeat to Sevilla: “When you lose, it's important to get a win as soon as possible afterwards".
Málaga at the Calderón
Tomorrow's home meeting with Málaga was the focus of Diego Simeone's press conference on Friday.
Are you considering Saúl to replace Koke?
Yes Saúl with start, accompanied by Gabi.
Málaga on the rise
After losing the last game, what do you expect from this one?
When you lose a game, you always have to try to win as soon after as you can. The lads have been working really well all week. The Sevilla game was fiercely-fought, and tomorrow we meet Málaga, who are on an upward trajectory, following several important results in succession. They're also doing well away from home, making the most of the spaces they are given. It will also depend on how we set out our gameplan, so that we can take the match where we want it to go. Málaga have got pace on both wings and quality through the middle. I am not expexting a team who will come here to defend.
Koke suspended
How much will the team miss Koke?
The figures say it all. I hope we can resolve tomorrow's game in the best possible way. Saúl has always played in the position where he will play tomorrow. He could present more danger than Koke in that role. He's more attacking, he's got an eye for goal, he's decent in the air and that can give us extra options.
Do you think Barça players provoked events at Mestalla last week?
I've got nothing to say about that.
What can you say about the year Godín is having?
He's having a very good season. He's a leader in our group, an important player - for us and Uruguay. Let's hope he can maintain that high level of concentration and intensity to his game for a long time - qualities which have been recognized in his nomination for the Ballon d'Or and the awrd for LaLiga's best centre-back.
Points target
What is the objective for this season?
If we can gain more points than we did last year, then we can say it's been a good season.