Simeone: Fernando Torres deserves credit for Atleti’s debut scorers

TL;DR

Atlético Madrid secured a 2-0 victory against Valencia, featuring debut goals from Iker Luque and Miguel Cubo. Coach Diego Simeone credited their success to Fernando Torres, emphasizing the importance of the B team's development.

Key points

Atlético Madrid won 2-0 against Valencia
Debut goals scored by Iker Luque and Miguel Cubo
First game in 41 years with two debutants scoring
Diego Simeone praised Fernando Torres for the players' development
Simeone emphasized the role of veteran players in the squad

Mentioned in this story

Diego SimeoneFernando Torres

Atlético MadridValencia CFIker LuqueMiguel Cubo

VALENCIA, SPAIN - MAY 02: Diego Simeone, Head Coach of Atletico de Madrid, greets Iker Luque after the LaLiga EA Sports match between Valencia CF and Atletico de Madrid at Estadi de Mestalla on May 02, 2026 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) | Getty Images Atlético Madrid celebrated a surprisingly comfortable 2-0 win over Valencia with debut goals for youngsters Iker Luque and Miguel Cubo, both stepping up from the B team, in the first game for 41 years where two debutants scored for the club. “There was Cubo’s quality, I made it clear to him what we need to get the best out of a player like him, and Iker is exactly what we saw,” coach Diego Simeone highlighted as he praise the duo. “These lads are Fernando Torres’s doing, not ours, it’s a reward for Atlético Madrid,” he said, as he gave the credit for their performances to his former striker, now the coach of the club’s B team Atlético Madrileño.

Diego Simeone on the game plan

“I’d planned the match exactly as it went. That link-up play from Molina, with Boñar, with Morcillo, with Rayane, who worked very well in defence.”

Simeone on the veterans

“Molina, Musso, Robin… They have the qualities we need in our squad. When we’re managing a squad like this, we need players like them. As for Nahuel, I’m absolutely certain that his best form comes in transitions, from midfield onwards. He’s got an eye for goal, a good shot, and he provides assists… When he’s playing more offensively, he can deliver all that for us. From deeper positions it’s more difficult.”

Q&A

What did Diego Simeone say about Fernando Torres' influence on debut goals?

Diego Simeone credited Fernando Torres for the performances of Iker Luque and Miguel Cubo, stating their success is a reward for Atlético Madrid.

How significant was the match against Valencia for Atlético Madrid's debutants?

The match marked the first time in 41 years that two debutants scored for Atlético Madrid in a single game.

What were Simeone's comments on the performance of veteran players?

Simeone highlighted the importance of veterans like Molina and Musso, stating they possess the qualities needed for the squad's success.