Simeone Downplays Concerns Over LaLiga's Proposed Miami Match

Simeone weighs in on proposed match

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone dismisses concerns about a proposed LaLiga match in Miami featuring Barcelona, citing it's too early to assess the impact.

Atletico Madrid's manager, Diego Simeone, has downplayed concerns about the proposed LaLiga match in Miami featuring Barcelona. According to Simeone, it's too early to assess the potential impact of this match. His comments come as Real Madrid has expressed opposition to the proposal, which involves moving the December match between Villarreal and Barcelona to Miami.

The proposal has already garnered approval from the Spanish football federation but still requires the green light from UEFA, US Soccer, CONCACAF and FIFA. Simeone's stance on the matter reflects his focus on the current season, where Atletico Madrid is vying for top honors in LaLiga. Notably, Simeone recently praised Barcelona, calling them the best team in LaLiga due to their exceptional attacking prowess and speed.

Key Details:

• Proposed Match: Villarreal vs Barcelona in Miami, December

• Approval Status: Approved by Spanish football federation, pending UEFA, US Soccer, CONCACAF and FIFA approval

• Opposition: Real Madrid has expressed opposition to the proposal

• Simeone's Stance: Too early to worry about the match's impact, focusing on current season.

Diego Simeone reflected on his team's mindset, saying, “We're always worrying about things that often don't end up happening. We wear ourselves out over things that don't happen.” This approach will likely serve Atletico well as they embark on their LaLiga campaign, with their sights set on the title after finishing third last season.

Atletico Madrid has made significant investments this summer, spending over $175 million to bolster their squad. Despite this, Simeone's comments suggest a focus on staying present and avoiding unnecessary stress. The team's opening match against Espanyol will be a crucial test of their ambitions.

🚨 Journalist: "What do you think of Barça - Villarreal in Miami?"

Diego Simeone: "We’re always worrying about things that many times don’t end up happening, we wear ourselves out on things that never come to pass. Of 100% of the things we think about, only 20% actually happen.” pic.twitter.com/tZdnLo6E5u

— Atletico Universe (@atletiuniverse) August 16, 2025

Diego Simeone emphasized the need for Atletico Madrid to evolve and grow alongside the club's increasing stature. “You always have to evolve. The team must continue to grow at the same pace as the club,” he said, highlighting the importance of adapting to heightened expectations. With significant investments in the squad, including over €181 million spent on new signings, Simeone's focus is on maintaining the team's competitiveness.

Atletico Madrid's ambitions are clear, with Simeone at the helm for nearly 14 years and two league titles under his belt. The team finished third last season and has made a substantial push for the title this year. Simeone's leadership style emphasizes hard work, humility and passion, which has been instrumental in Atletico's success. As the new season begins, Simeone is confident in his team's ability to compete with the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Key Points:

• Simeone's Tenure: Nearly 14 years at Atletico Madrid, with 2 league titles

• Squad Investment: Over €181 million spent on new signings

• Expectations: Atletico needs to evolve and grow with the club's increasing stature

• Competitors: Barcelona and Real Madrid

Diego Simeone emphasized the need for his players to prove themselves on the pitch, saying, “The players are good but they will have to prove it on the pitch. Then we will be where we deserve to be.” This mindset reflects Simeone's focus on performance and results, rather than just talent.

The arrival of new players, including Alex Baena, David Hancko, Johnny Cardozo, and Thiago Almada, presents an opportunity for Atletico to adapt and potentially change their style of play. Simeone expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of evolving the team's approach, which could bring new dynamics and strengths to the squad.

New Signings:

• Alex Baena
• David Hancko
• Johnny Cardozo
• Thiago Almada

With these new additions, Atletico aims to make a strong push for the title, building on their ambitious summer recruitment drive.

🎙️ Diego Pablo @Simeone ahead of the start of the new season pic.twitter.com/zqhvl88rQm

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) August 16, 2025

Diego Simeone views changes as beneficial when they address the team's needs. “Changes are always good as long as they respond to what is needed. I don't know if the word is change, I would say improve,” he said, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the team's performance. Simeone hopes the new signings will quickly adapt to the club's requirements.

The arrival of versatile players like Alex Baena, who often played on the left wing for Villarreal, presents opportunities for tactical flexibility. Simeone mentioned that Baena may be used as a second striker, showcasing the coach's willingness to experiment and find the best fit for his team.

Tactical Flexibility:

• Alex Baena: Potential role as a second striker
• Adaptation: New signings need to quickly fit into the team's system

Simeone's approach focuses on continuous improvement and adapting to the team's needs, which has been key to Atletico's success under his leadership.

Upcoming Matches:

• Atletico Madrid vs Espanyol: Coming up soon, as part of their LaLiga schedule
• Elche CF vs Atletico Madrid: August 23, 18:30 WAT, LaLiga

Simeone's leadership style emphasizes hard work, humility, and passion, which has been instrumental in Atletico's success under his guidance. With a strong squad and a clear vision, Atletico aims to challenge the dominant teams in LaLiga.

“He's done very well and may start there in that position. Where I see him least is as a winger. We understand that it's better to continue along these lines,” the 55-year-old said.