Diego Simeone Believes LaLiga Title Race is Still Wide Open as Atletico Aim for Recovery

Atletico Madrid’s manager, Diego Simeone, is optimistic that the international achievements of his players will help turn the tide for the club following a challenging month marked by back-to-back defeats in LaLiga and an exit from the Champions League.

Currently sitting in third place, Atletico trails league leaders Barcelona by seven points. Barcelona dealt them a 4-2 defeat on March 16, just days after Atletico was eliminated from the Champions League after a penalty shootout in the last 16.

Several key players from Atletico have enjoyed success with their national teams during World Cup qualifiers. Notably, Giuliano Simeone, Diego’s son, scored for Argentina in their impressive 4-1 victory over Brazil, while Alexander Sorloth netted two goals in wins for Norway.

“All the international players returning from their national teams brings a boost of positive energy,” Simeone expressed to reporters on Friday ahead of the upcoming match against Espanyol.

“They performed well, and after our match against Barcelona… winning always lifts spirits.”

Simeone, who has guided Atletico to two LaLiga titles, emphasised that the title race is far from settled, with ten matches remaining.

“I believe the last five games are crucial in determining the season, and those who remain in contention will be the ones fighting for the title,” he remarked.

However, the 54-year-old was quick to remind his squad not to underestimate 15th-placed Espanyol on Saturday.

“LaLiga is challenging across the board; every team competes well, and there’s no such thing as an easy match… we focus on the here and now, and right now it’s Espanyol,” said Simeone.

“We put in a tremendous effort against Barcelona, and although the opponent’s quality might have surpassed us… we are ready to bounce back.”