Simeone: Atlético Madrid are close to becoming champions

Diego Simeone on what makes him believe in what’s possible

“The players, 100 percent the players. Looking at the squad I have, that’s what gives me hope.”

Simeone on his message to the players

“No, the players are absolutely clear on where they stand. I thanked them yesterday for an extraordinary season in terms of competitiveness. Obviously, we didn’t win anything, and as for the critics, I’m grateful to them, because they’re the ones who motivate us to keep improving and always push us to get better. Because next season, after what we did this year, it’s time to be champions. So it’s good that they exist because we need them and because it’s part of life. It’s not always clear that these are positive things; there’s always criticism, and criticism is sometimes constructive and sometimes not, but we do need to be clear about where we stand, and as long as I’m here, we’re going to compete.”

Simeone on Koke’s future

“Well, the truth is that, with this many games, we haven’t had the chance to talk specifically about it. I’m not going to speak with you about what I think and what he might want before I speak with him. And when I speak with him, I think it will be more appropriate to explain how I feel, what I think and what he’s thinking as well.”

Simeone on the team’s emotional state

“We’ll be at our stadium tomorrow with our fans. Our fans will decide whether they’re behind the team or not, because people want to win, and either outcome is understandable. And all we have to do is keep working, keep giving our all, so they can see that we’re giving absolutely everything. And when you give absolutely everything in life, then you have to accept (the outcome), which is a tough word, when things go against you; and when you tell a friend, ‘well, you have to accept it,’ it’s easier, but when you have to live through it yourself, of course it’s harder, but you have to accept things. Sometimes things turn out the way God wants, not the way we want, and it’s clear that God’s plan is much better than ours.”

Simeone on Real Madrid’s training ground bust-up

“You know me, I’m very respectful. I understand the question and it makes sense to ask it, but I’m very respectful when it comes to these kinds of opinions, because I’m not in a position to comment, I’m not there with them.”

Simeone on why fans continue to support Atleti

“I think that, over these 14 years, the kids who were born from 2014 and earlier know why they support Atlético. You don’t even need to ask.”