Diego Pablo Simeone spoke to the media after Atlético Madrid began their campaign with a victory over Málaga. The Argentine coach discussed the match and was also asked about chants from the Atlético supporters directed at Julián Álvarez.
Simeone Responds to Julián Álvarez Chants: “I Respect Our Fans”
The Atlético Madrid manager spoke after the victory over Málaga and refused to fuel controversy surrounding chants aimed at Julián Álvarez while praising his players' performance.
The situation surrounding the Argentine forward has become increasingly significant in recent days, particularly amid speculation about his future. However, Simeone refused to add fuel to the controversy when asked directly about the supporters' chants.
“I respect our fans very much,” the Argentine coach replied when questioned about the chants aimed at Julián Álvarez.
Away from the controversy, Simeone focused much of his analysis on his team's performance. The coach explained that he initially selected the players he believed were in the best condition, while the substitutes ultimately proved decisive in unlocking the match.
“We understood that the best way to approach this game was to play the players who were in the best condition. Those were the ones who started,” he explained.
Atlético Madrid found solutions in the second half thanks to the players introduced from the bench. Simeone emphasized that the substitutions added greater quality and helped his team solve a difficult game in which Málaga had provided significant resistance.
“With the changes, players with more quality came on and were able to resolve it,” Simeone said.
One of the standout players was Kang-in Lee, who played an important role in the outcome. Simeone particularly praised his commitment and ability to adapt to the demands of each match.
“He is a player who has to work according to what the game demands. He is committed to his team,” the manager explained.
There was also praise for Álex Baena, another player who impressed. Simeone rejected the idea of finding a direct replacement for Antoine Griezmann, insisting that every player has different qualities.
“I am not looking for someone similar to Griezmann. Everyone is different,” he said.
The manager also highlighted Baena's current form, saying the midfielder has been training well and could become an important player for the team.
“That energy you get from winning a World Cup is something we have to take advantage of,” Simeone added.
Regarding the transfer market, the Argentine kept the door open to possible moves. Simeone reiterated that the club continues working to build the squad needed for the season.
“We are always open to the possibility that something could happen. The club is working to give us the best possible squad,” he said.
Asked whether the international players would start the next match, Simeone kept his answer brief: “I don't know.”
Following the victory over Málaga, Atlético Madrid can begin the season with positive momentum, although the uncertainty surrounding Julián Álvarez remains one of the biggest talking points around the club.
