Diego Pablo Simeone has addressed the media from Majadahonda to analyze tomorrow's important clash against Real Madrid. Obviously, one of the most discussed topics was the refereeing controversy that has been generating a lot of talk in recent days on both sides. However, the coach was also asked about different aspects of his squad, with his words about Rodrigo de Paul being the most notable.
At this point, it is undeniable that the world champion is experiencing his best moment as a player for Atlético de Madrid after some inconsistent years. Right now, he is indisputable in the midfield, and the question will be who will join him when visiting the Santiago Bernabéu tomorrow. Cholo also had praise for Pablo Barrios and Samuel Lino, who could start in the midfield.
Message to Rodrigo de Paul
Days like tomorrow need players on the field who are in good form and have the necessary experience and attitude. The Argentine is going through his best form since he arrived at the club in 2021, securing a starting position in the engine room. Therefore, once again, Simeone wanted to praise his player ahead of a match that could be decisive.
"He has managed to convey the same as with the national team in the World Cup and in his process and convert it into Atleti in the best way," explained Cholo. "Before, he had done it in separate spaces, now he is having a continuity that we see and enjoy because he is very important for the team, with personality, hierarchy, vision of the game, we need him." Regarding the match, he explained that "I don't imagine only with those who start, but a match that lasts 96 minutes" in terms of his plan.
Lineup Doubts
In general, it seems that Simeone has few uncertainties about the eleven footballers who will start to try to defeat Real Madrid. In defense, the chosen full-backs would be Marcos Llorente and a Javi Galán who already returned from injury against Getafe and would provide an assist to Giuliano Simeone. The attacking duo would be the usual for important clashes, featuring Antoine Griezmann and Julián Alvarez, the top scorers of this season.
Initially, Samuel Lino would be the chosen one on the left wing, with Conor Gallagher having to stay on the bench after being a substitute on Tuesday. Alongside Rodrigo de Paul would be Koke, one of the footballers who has started in the last four matches and is gradually improving. In that case, Pablo Barrios would have to wait for his opportunity, as he couldn't make the squad list against Getafe due to an indisposition.