Atlético Madrid: Simeone says he won't fight to keep Torres
Speaking ahead of Atleti's Europa League clash with Copenhagen, Diego Simeone gave a blunt reply when asked about Fernando Torres' future.
Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has offered a blunt assessment on the future of striker Fernando Torres, who is out of contract with the LaLiga club at the end of the season.
Will you fight to keep Torres at Atlético? "No"
Asked on Wednesday whether he is prepared to do everything in his power to try to keep Torres at Atlético - as he has with fellow forward Antoine Griezmann - Simeone replied simply: "No".
Atleti youth product Torres, who returned to his boyhood club in 2015 after eight years away, has made just two league starts this term, with Griezmann, Kevin Gameiro and, since January, Diego Costa preferred up front.
Torres remarks in contrast to praise for Griezmann
Simeone's response is in contrast to his recent comments on Griezmann, who is also strongly fancied to depart in the summer. "He's fantastic lad, he's always upbeat, happy, humble, he has a huge heart," he said of the Frenchman on Saturday.
"He's someone who adds to the atmosphere in the dressing room and he is always involved. If I was an Atlético fan, I'd do everything possible to make sure Griezmann stays here with us."
Atleti host Copenhagen in Europa League on Thursday
Simeone was speaking ahead of Thursday's Europa League last-32 return against FC Copenhagen at the Wanda Metropolitano, which the Spaniards head into holding a 4-1 first-leg lead.
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