"I like how Barca play, we need to be ready to suffer"

Atletico Madrid take on Barcelona on Tuesday as the two La Liga giants compete for a place in the Copa del Rey final. Ahead of the first leg of the semi-final at the Montjuic, Diego Simeone was present to answer the media's questions during his press conference on Monday afternoon. 

The 'Colchoneros' head coach wasted no time in addressing the big talking point ahead of the match, the goalkeeper position. "Juan (Musso) will play on Tuesday," said Simeone, showing no sign of changing his mind about his Argentine compatriot starting in the domestic cup fixtures. Musso counts four clean sheets from five appearances in the Copa del Rey since joining on loan from Atalanta.

Speaking about what the defensive backline could look like on Tuesday night, Simeone seemed open to the idea of Clement Lenglet starting ahead of the experienced Cesar Azpilicueta, who is ruled out with injury. "With Lenglet, we will see if he starts or not. Cesar had a great first half at the Mestalla. He won't be with us tomorrow, but we will see if he can make it for Sunday," he affirmed.

The 54-year-old also had words of praise for Pablo Barrios, who continues to be more and more fundamental in the middle of the park. "He's 21, he's still growing, he's important for us and he keeps getting better by the day. I see him taking responsibility in the game. He was in those situations with the red cards but they will serve as an important experience and they will allow him to have confidence in future," he added.

The 'Rojiblancos' boss spared a few words to his upcoming opponents, who are currently at the top of the Liga standings. "We know what kind of game we want to play. I really like how Barcelona play, they have a strong defence with that high line they maintain. We need to be ready to suffer like in the league," Simeone said. But while praising the Catalans, he also highlighted that Atletico's 2-1 victory over Fick's men earlier in the season could help to boost his players from a mental perspective.

Simeone ended the press conference with a commenter on next month's derby clash against Real Madrid in the Champions League last 16. "We have to go day by day. We are excited and impatient to play every match in the best way possible. But right now we need to focus on tomorrow's match, " he concluded.

 

February 24, 2025