Atletico's Title Hopes Alive Despite Point Deduction, Says Simeone

Simeone remains optimistic about Atletico's title chances despite being 10 points behind Barcelona, citing the team's enthusiasm and excitement.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone heaped praise on Conor Gallagher's adaptability after his impressive start in Madrid. Gallagher, who joined Atletico from Chelsea when Enzo Maresca deemed him surplus to requirements, has been trying out different midfield roles but is slowly finding his footing. Simeone said, “When we think of him, we think of his youth, energy, and intensity in the game. He also strikes the ball very well.”

Simeone highlighted the challenges of adapting to the Spanish league, especially for players coming from England. He noted Gallagher's ability to compete well in different positions, even those where he might not feel most comfortable. ”It's never easy for players coming from England to adapt to the Spanish championship, to the language... He has competed very well in different places and in positions where he doesn't feel more comfortable,” Simeone added. Gallagher has brought energy to the team with his pressing, defensive work, and runs into the box, and Simeone believes he will continue to evolve and grow. “He will evolve, he has room for growth. He is very intense in offensive and defensive play, he brings a lot to us.”

❝Game by game we will bring our enthusiasm and our energy so that the team can continue to compete as it is doing until the end of the season❞.

— Simeone 🎙 pic.twitter.com/Zb7jMZZo9n

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) April 13, 2025

Simeone expressed that Nahuel Molina's recent performances haven't met expectations, urging the Argentine full-back to improve. “He's a person, first and foremost, that's why sometimes he's better and other times not so much,” Simeone said, acknowledging Molina's inconsistency.

Simeone emphasized Molina's value to the team, noting his offensive and defensive capabilities. ”He gives us a lot of options offensively, he has the speed to finish things off and he's also fast enough for everything defensively,” he said. While recognizing Molina's contributions, Simeone stressed the need for further growth. “He knows he needs to improve and we've talked about it several times. When you give a lot of good things, then you're asked for more. We have to support him so he can continue giving us everything he's already given us.”

Atletico Madrid's recent performances have seen them drop points, leaving them third in the standings, 10 points behind league leaders Barcelona. The team has had more time to rest after being eliminated from the Champions League by Real Madrid, but this extra time hasn't necessarily translated to an advantage. Instead, it has left manager Diego Simeone feeling restless.

Ready for tomorrow 😃 pic.twitter.com/jYVw81vDwZ

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) April 13, 2025

Simeone expressed his preference for regular competition, hinting that prolonged periods without matches can be challenging. “It's not that simple to train every day either. Personally, I prefer to play regularly because it also means we're in more competitions,” he said. Despite the setbacks, Simeone remains optimistic about Atletico's title chances, saying, “We're full of enthusiasm and excitement, always hoping to fight until the very end of the championship.”