Diego Pablo Simeone, head coach of Atlético de Madrid, called for respect following his team's 2-1 victory over Real Madrid and responded to comments made by José Mourinho, who had strongly questioned the refereeing during his post-match press conference.
Simeone Demands Respect After Mourinho's Press Conference
Diego Simeone responded to José Mourinho's refereeing criticism following Atlético de Madrid's derby victory.
"You have to show respect, no matter who you are, because otherwise you cross a dangerous line," Simeone said, emphasizing the responsibility coaches and players have due to the public exposure that comes with professional soccer.
"We have to respect others, the referees, our colleagues and the work being done, because if we don't, we all lose," the Argentine coach added.
Simeone Responds to Mourinho's Criticism
Earlier, Mourinho had described everything surrounding the refereeing as "very strange." The Real Madrid coach even showed two images as he argued that red cards should have been given for challenges by Cuti Romero on Jude Bellingham and Kang-in Lee on Fede Valverde.
In response, Simeone stressed the importance of choosing words carefully regardless of who is speaking.
"No matter who you are, whether it's Mourinho, Simeone or Flick. We need to be careful with what we say. When you cross that line, it's dangerous," he said before asking reporters to focus their questions on the match.
Simeone Praises Atlético's Performance
Analyzing the game, Simeone said Atlético de Madrid remained in control against a dangerous opponent in transition and particularly praised his team's collective performance.
"The match I saw was an intense game that we controlled at all times against a team with incredible transitions and extraordinary players," he explained.
The coach also highlighted Atlético de Madrid's defensive performance and said his team knew where it could cause problems, particularly by attacking down the right side.
When asked again about the refereeing, Simeone pointed out that the match began 11 against 11 before Atlético de Madrid later gained a numerical advantage.
Finally, the Argentine emphasized the emotional significance of the victory for Atlético supporters. Simeone celebrated the fact that, after 15 years, his team was once again able to defeat Real Madrid under these circumstances and said the result puts Atlético de Madrid in a positive position to continue growing as a team.
José Mário dos Santos Mourinho Félix
Real Madrid CF
Diego Pablo Simeone González
Club Atlético de Madrid
