Simeone: "The Wanda Metropolitano is like a Circus in ancient Rome"
The Atlético coach also spoke about Diego Costa: "We're happy that a player of his level is so excited to be back with us. He fought to return to us"Nigeria B - Atlético Madrid: friendly
Diego Simeone saluted Atlético fans for creating an exhuberant backdrop to this afternoon's 2-0 win over Sevilla which puts his team second in LaLiga standings, just one point behind Barcelona who are guests of Girona later this evening. The coach likened the Wanda Metropolitano, where Atleti have a flawless record, to the Circus Maximus of ancient Rome.
The team always comes first says Simeone
What pleased you most about this victory?
The challenge is to understand that no one is more important than the team. That's what gives us that extra push, we are on the right path, there is a lot of competition for places and that is good for the club and for the lads. They all know that, above and beyond playing, the team always comes first.
Today's game took a similar tone to the midweek game at San Mamés...
We were up against another great team, we managed to match the rhythm which Sevilla wanted to set and handled the pressure we were put under. We struggled in the first half and they were taking the game where they wanted. But through Carrasco, Griezmann and FIlipe we were able to get that final pass in so that we could win the game. Once the first goal went in, we were on our way.
Which players do you feel a bit bad about leaving out?
I feel sorry for the two centre-backs. It hurts me a lot to leave players out.
Thoughts turn to Chelsea
What do you make of the team's electric start to the campaign?
The only thing on our minds right now is Chelsea. The team has responded well to the demands of LaLiga. We have some tough away trips - Valencia, Bilbao... where we've had to play without our people. In the second half today, we saw what our people, our fans are all about. It's going to be tremendous here. It was like being at a Roman Circus. It was exhillerating.
Diego Costa was able to toast the win from the stands...
We're happy that a player of his level is so excited to be back with us. He fought hard to return to us and that is to be admired. I'm very happy. Hopefully he'll be back to full fitness soon.