Diego Simeone has delivered glowing praise for Barcelona despite his Atletico Madrid side eliminating them from two competitions this season. Speaking ahead of Tuesday's La Liga clash with Osasuna, the Argentine manager marvelled at his team's ability to upset the newly crowned champions in knockout football, even as Hansi Flick's dominant side secured the league title with a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid at Camp Nou.
"Barcelona is the team that plays the best in the world," Simeone told reporters. "They won the league playing very well, just like last season. And all I could think while watching the game was: 'We knocked this team out twice, my God!'" Atletico eliminated Barca from the Copa del Rey semi-finals with a 4-3 aggregate triumph before repeating the feat in the Champions League quarter-finals, winning 3-2 across two legs. Despite these memorable victories, Barcelona dominated both La Liga encounters between the rivals this campaign.
Squad Updates and Season Outlook
Simeone confirmed positive news regarding defender Jose Maria Gimenez, who sustained a sprained ankle against Celta Vigo. The Uruguayan centre-back is expected to recover in time for international commitments this summer. The Atletico boss also hinted at rotating his squad, suggesting academy players would feature against Osasuna as the season winds down.
Currently sitting fourth in La Liga, six points adrift of third-place Villarreal with three matches remaining, Atletico still harbour slim hopes of securing the final podium spot. Simeone dismissed suggestions his players lack motivation, comparing the drive to win even friendly matches. "It's like when you play with your friends, you want to win; that's the stimulus this sport gives you," he said. After Osasuna, Atletico face Girona before concluding their campaign away at Villarreal in a fixture that could determine their final position.
