Diego Simeone confirms return of key player for Atletico Madrid – ‘The toughest match is inside the head’

“We know how wonderful it is for any athlete to play in a final. Both the Real Sociedad players and our team are incredibly excited and will give their all to win. On Tuesday, we played an important match, which put us in a fantastic position: a Champions League semi-final.”

“Now we’re back down to earth, that’s what matters, and here we are, aware of the challenges we’ll face. Real Sociedad knows how to play, they know how to fight, and they have different ways of attacking, both through the middle and down the wings, with young players. We expect nothing less than to try and take the game to where we think we can hurt them.”

Like Antoine Griezmann before him, Simeone’s message to the Atletico fans was one of thanks.

“Thank you. Just thank you. I can’t say anything but thank you, thank you, and thank you for all the support I’ve received since I arrived in ’94, then when I returned at the end of my playing career, and during my time as manager, with all the difficulties involved, and for being able to witness the club’s growth. Thank you.”

‘This final is part of a process’

In terms of what the final means, Simeone was philosophical.

“It is a process that evolves, a process that shows that continuity, humility, hard work and knowing where to go has a path, which is not always what one desires, but one sees what one is looking for.”

“I always imagine the best; I have no other thought than the best. Obviously, it’s not just about winning a Copa del Rey; it’s a goal we have for a lot of things that we’re obviously going to achieve.”

Simeone on Barrios fitness

Simeone was also able to deliver good news for Atletico fans, with Pablo Barrios returning from injury after five weeks out due to a hamstring problem.

“Everyone who is part of the squad tomorrow, can help us. Pablo Barrios will be with us.”

It is not yet clear whether David Hancko will recover in time for a starting spot. Johnny Cardoso is also in contention to start in midfield, although Koke Resurreccion and Marcos Llorente have been in excellent form in midfield.