Diego Pablo Simeone yesterday began his journey towards what will be his fourteenth season in charge of Atlético de Madrid. El Cholo started the 24/25 with a draw at the always difficult ground of La Cerámica against a solid Villarreal. Both he and Marcelino played a very tactical game, and the duel ended with a draw on the scoreboard and a fair distribution of points.
After the match, Simeone was asked about the progress of the game and the aspects that Atlético needs to improve. El Cholo stressed the importance of precision in front of goal and the importance of being accurate when you are on target. Also analysing various aspects that need to be improved by some of his players, Simeone spoke openly in front of the microphones when he heard the referee's whistle.
Simeone's self-criticism at the end of the match
The Argentinean focused in particular on the fact that "we have to take advantage of the opportunities created" and that "in just two chances they scored twice against us." With these words, Cholo made clear his position regarding Atlético de Madrid 's superiority on the pitch, but that they lacked more punch and forcefulness. Focusing on specific occasions such as SamuelLino 's two, Simeone did not hide his frustration at not having been able to materialise his great opportunities.
As for more individual aspects, Cholo highlighted the defensive errors, saying he would speak "with each of the players." Simeone also called for patience and the need to improve, given that this has only just begun. In addition to the action on the scoreboard, the three new faces of Atlético were also seen on the pitch, something the Argentine also spoke about.
Simeone and Atlético de Madrid's new signings
Adding Robin Le Normand to the centre of defence from the start, Simeone said the Spaniard is "a powerful, strong and important defender". Alexander Sorloth also established himself in the starting XI of the season and Simeone praised the Norwegian striker for "always being close to goal" and "always looking for the best shot". On the acclaimed debut of Julián Alvarez , Cholo said that "he needs to adapt completely and get to know his new teammates to exploit his qualities".
Nice words for Koke
The scorer of Villarreal 's second goal was Koke , who scored an own goal after a grotesque error by Jan Oblak when he tried to clear a cross from the left. The Atlético de Madrid captain looked extremely frustrated with himself, something that Simeone did not overlook in the mixed zone. At the end of the match, Cholo said that Koke is "a very important player for us" and that he understood "his frustration", offering all his support to the leader of the Atlético dressing room.