Simeone thought back to Real Madrid after VAR controversy

"On the subject of handball we have had episodes like at the Bernabeu or in Villarreal where the referee said it wasn't a penalty and it was very clear," commented the Atletico coach. 

Simeone understood the Valladolid coach's complaints: "Judging that play is always difficult, but when a team are fighting for their lives, protesting is logical. The referee explained after the game why he didn't give it, but the complaint is totally understandable."

On the encounter, Simeone admitted a certain lack of precision from his men: "It was a tough game, difficult after playing against Valencia and we were not precise like we were the other day."

"They looked to attack on the counter when we attacked. Our objective was to win, Barca are a tremendous side and we will have to wait and see what happens tonight," he added.

Lastly, he spoke about bringing on Thomas, Arias and Filipe Luis: "With respect to Thomas I understood that he had to play because Rodrigo put in lots of effort the other day. At half time I thought that we needed Rodrigo's presence. The same applies to Arias who I brought on for Juanfran to freshen things up."

"It's difficult to speak about the futures of Juanfran and Godin. Everything which is resolved from here on in will depend on what the footballers need. They are players who have put all their heart into this club," he added.