With the Title Race Beyond Atletico’s Control, Simeone Adopts a Match-by-Match Approach

Atletico Madrid is focusing on taking each match as it comes during the final stretch of the season, with hopes of closing the gap on LaLiga leaders Barcelona and Real Madrid, who are both in contention for the title, according to manager Diego Simeone on Friday.

Initially, Atletico was a strong contender for the championship, even leading the table halfway through the season. However, Simeone’s side has struggled recently and currently occupies third place.

They find themselves ten points behind Barcelona and six adrift of second-placed Real Madrid, with just five games left to play. Atletico’s next challenge is a trip to face Eduardo Coudet’s Deportivo Alaves, who are positioned 17th, on Saturday.

“We need to approach each game individually and finish them off as best we can. Barcelona and Real Madrid are in a crucial position, competing fiercely against each other. We will focus on our own performance,” Simeone told the media.

“Improvement must be our priority. Alaves have been strong in recent matches, displaying good momentum under a coach with clear strategies, much like he has in his other teams,” he remarked, referring to his fellow Argentine.

When questioned about Atletico’s shortcomings this season, Simeone identified missed opportunities, stating they should have earned “nine or ten points” from away matches.

While Atletico has only lost once at home this season, their away form has seen four defeats and five draws.

In contrast, Alaves has bounced back from a tough start to the year, winning three and drawing two of their last seven fixtures, allowing them to move clear of the relegation zone.

Coached by Coudet, who took charge from Luis Garcia in December, Alaves currently holds a two-point cushion above Las Palmas, who sit in 18th place—the final relegation position.

“Alaves are a tenacious side with pressing needs,” added Simeone. “We share similar motivations and want to dictate the flow of the match to exploit any weaknesses.”

As the transfer window approaches, Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena has been rumoured to be a target for Atletico. However, Simeone chuckled when asked for his thoughts on the player.

“You think I’m going to fall for that… If I say he’s extraordinary, that I admire him, and he’s crucial for the national team, you’ll claim: ‘El Cholo (Simeone) wants him’,” he remarked.

“Conversely, if I say he’s not up to par, you’ll suggest: ‘El Cholo doesn’t fancy him.’ Clearly, he’s a brilliant player!”