Simeone: Atlético are not victims after Copa del Rey final loss

TL;DR

Diego Simeone stated that Atlético Madrid will not see themselves as victims after their Copa del Rey final loss. He emphasized the need to focus on future matches, particularly against Elche in La Liga.

Key points

Diego Simeone refuses to label Atlético Madrid as victims.
Simeone emphasizes focusing on future matches.
Players Sørloth and Lookman are recovering from injuries.
Simeone believes the team is in better shape than last season.

Atlético MadridReal SociedadElcheArsenal

SEVILLE, SPAIN - APRIL 18: Diego Simeone, Head Coach of Atletico de Madrid, reacts during the Copa Del Rey Final match between Real Sociedad and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio de La Cartuja on April 18, 2026 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images) | Getty Images Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone was not feeling sorry for himself as he spoke to the media ahead of his team’s return to action after Copa del Rey final defeat, with Elche in La Liga next up. “We’ve given the fans the feeling and the conviction that we can reach that level, to believe in what we do and to be where we are, and the team has shown it can be there,” Simeone said in response to the news that all tickets for next week’s UEFA Champions League semifinal first leg against Arsenal have sold out. “Then it might happen or it might not, but it’s part of the process we’re in. “The fans were incredible in Seville,” Simeone continued. “From the start, their arrival the day before, and the send-off after the loss. Often people want you to say something so they can feel like victims, but no, we’re not victims of anything. We have to look ahead, follow our path, and pursue what we want in only one way: by working hard.”

Diego Simeone on bouncing back

“First and foremost, by accepting (the result of the final). There’s always another team that wants to win and does what it takes to bring home the title. They deserved to win, and life is about accepting the situations that arise, learning along the way and staying focused on our goals.”

Q&A

What did Diego Simeone say about Atlético Madrid's Copa del Rey final loss?

Diego Simeone expressed that Atlético Madrid will not feel like victims after their Copa del Rey final loss and emphasized the importance of looking ahead.

How is Atlético Madrid preparing for their next match after the Copa del Rey final?

Atlético Madrid is focusing on their upcoming match against Elche in La Liga, with Simeone urging the team to concentrate on performing well.

What injuries are affecting Atlético Madrid players ahead of their next match?

Simeone mentioned that Sørloth and Lookman are recovering from minor injuries, while Hancko is making progress, but Giménez is not expected to return yet.

How does Simeone compare this season's performance to last season's?

Simeone noted that Atlético Madrid is in better shape this season compared to last, as they reached the semifinals of the Champions League and lost in the Copa del Rey final.