Koke says Atlético will treat Barcelona second leg “like a final”

Atletico Madrid's Spanish midfielder #06 Koke gives a press conference on the eve of their UEFA Champions League quarter final second leg football match against FC Barcelona at Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, on April 13, 2026. (Photo by Javier SORIANO / AFP via Getty Images) | AFP via Getty Images

Atlético Madrid put forward captain Koke to speak to the media ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barcelona, and the midfielder addressed the game, his future and his coach Diego Simeone.

“Thanks to him, the club has grown so much,” Koke said. “Us players have followed an incredible vision to the letter. We’ve trusted him completely, and we continue to do so.

“He’s my coach, he’s believed in me since he arrived,” Koke continued. “We’ve never crossed that line of speaking about it, but he knows how much I care about him. People know how much I love him.”

Koke on making history for Atlético

“Playing in the Champions League quarter-finals and having the chance to advance to the semi-finals is incredible. We’ll treat it like a final, and we’re not (yet) thinking about the Copa del Rey final.”

Koke on Barcelona’s belief in a comeback

“It’s natural for them to have that hope. But my teammates are motivated. We respect our opponent, but we’re eager to win the match.”

Koke on what’s changed over the last nine years

“Good question. I’m a little older, but I have the same desire and excitement to win every match. I imagined the change the club has gone through, you never know what can happen in minutes, hours, or days… You always dream of being at the highest level, and both the club and I are there.”

Koke on his goal against Barcelona in 2014

“I’ve watched the goal a few times. It’s true that when these big matches come around, you try to motivate yourself with positive memories from those games, like in 2014 and 2016. I remember the goal and I remember what the Calderón was like. Hopefully (Tuesday) will be a beautiful night for everyone.”

Koke on his future

“Tomorrow, I’m determined to give it my all. Now is not the time to talk about my future.”