âNo matter how much we coaches mull things over, itâs clear that football is all about the players, and we need to manage their emotions in the best possible way so they can approach the game in the best possible state. Afterward, we can mull over this idea or that idea, but the match changes the moment it starts. So, I think experience and time give you more composure, not passivity, but composure, and, obviously, the peace of mind to face a match like the one weâre facing tomorrow.â
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Simeone on the second half of the first leg
âIâm going to try to tell the team to play like they did in the second half. Letâs see. If itâs that easy, it would be great.â
Simeone on the significance of the match
âWe always come back to a bit more of the same. Weâll try to play the game that needs to be played, with the intensity and understanding the match demands. Hopefully, the quality of our players will elevate the teamâs performance.
âWe have a lot of faith in what weâre doing. Weâre convinced and confident about what we want to achieve in the match. And then, obviously, the result wonât depend solely on us.â
Simeone on the key factor for advancing
âBeing convinced of what we have to do. Whatever plan is chosen, thatâs the plan weâll have to communicate and carry through to the end.â
Simeone on the fitness of SĂžrloth, Giuliano and Alvarez
âYesterday each of them moved around a bit, theyâre feeling better. Today we hope they can train wellâyouâll see for yourselves. And tomorrow morning weâll decide who starts.â
Simeone on the importance of JuliĂĄn Alvarez
âJuliĂĄn Alvarez is JuliĂĄn Alvarez in these kinds of important matches. Itâs clear that he knows the English league very well. He had a very good game last week, and hopefully tomorrow he can respond in the way the match demands.â
Simeone on changing hotels from the visit in October
âWell, I think weâre better off now than we were in October. Weâre better off now than we were in October, and this hotel was cheaper. This one was cheaper. Thatâs why we switched. I think weâre better off now than we were in October. Any other questions?â
Simeone on SĂžrlothâs role
âA very important role. We need him a lot.â
Simeone on SĂžrlothâs playing time
âWe need him, whether itâs 45, 60, 20, or 10 minutes.â
Simeone on the pre-match routine
âWeâll work on whatâs missing after the match ends. Obviously, we have a clear plan. Letâs hope we can convey it effectively and that tomorrow we can put on a great match.â
