Simeone: "It's a final with two teams fighting for different goals"
The Atlético Madrid head coach spoke at a press conference about the final game of the season against Real Valladolid, trusting that his players will get over the line.
Diego Simeone spoke to the media ahead of his team's final game of the season, one that will see his Atlético side take on Valladolid in a bid to win the club's first LaLiga title since 2014.
How do you see the team mentally?
We have worked as we do every week and we will try to play the same game as always.
Does the fact that Valladolid are playing for their lives complicate the challenge?
We understand that anything is possible in a match and obviously Valladolid's needs are different to ours, but they have the same important objectives.
How will you handle the information that will come from Valdebebas about the Real Madrid-Villarreal game?
Like all season long. We have always tried to be immersed in our own matches, which is the only thing that concerns us and the only thing that depends on us.
A month and a half ago, when things were going worse, you said you were "delighted". How are you feeling now?
It's a very long season. All the teams have gone through different situations to get here. There are two teams fighting for LaLiga, three for relegation and three for the Europa League. That's the way it is in the Spanish league, game by game you have to give your best and hope for the best at the end.
How do you manage the stress outside of work?
I have a family life like anyone else and I also work hard thinking about what the team needs. I work with my staff every day of the week.
Will the team be similar to previous matches?
First, we'll see how two or three players we currently have under observation are doing and if they can start and from there, tomorrow morning, we'll decide the plan.
What is your feeling for the match?
It's a final. Two teams are fighting for different goals and both will be fighting for that goal.
Nine of Atlético's ten leagues were won on the last day of the season...
It is an important day and we will continue to fight for what we want.
What are your main concerns regarding the match?
That my team can continue to respond as they have done in recent games, that's what we're looking for tomorrow.