"Joao Felix? We will assess him according to how he works"

Atletico Madrid is already in Hong Kong to play against Kitchee. Coach Cholo Simeone held a press conference for the first time this pre-season.

"Joao Felix? He played a good game in the 45 minutes he played (against Getafe). He is an Atletico Madrid player and, while he is here, we will assess him according to how he works, as we do with everyone in the team," he said.

The Argentinian coach also spoke about the squad's composition: "We are happy with the arrivals of Le Normand and Sorloth, it's a big step for the club and good for the team's growth. When they are all here, we will be able to put together the squad we want".

He also referred to the lack of players in the first few weeks: "You always have to look at the positive side of things because all coaches live with this situation when there is a European Championship or World Cup, but it allows us to be more with the academy kids, who will be the future of the club, and to strengthen them. We had 16 very good days and the team is growing".

Furthermore, on the load of games in the calendar, he said: "It's clear that we have to adapt, we need more players than usual because we're going to play the Club World Cup, which is another big step for the club". 

"When there is a Copa America or a European Championship, the preparation to compete is more difficult, but we have to adapt so that the players have the strength that the competition demands," added Simeone.

 

August 5, 2024