Diego Simeone believes forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is the easiest way to make him uncomfortable, forward of Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona.
Atleti are defending a 4-0 lead over the Blaugrana as they appear to achieve their first home cup remaining since 2012-13, with the second leg going down at Camp Nou on Tuesday.
Simeone’s facet are overwhelming favourites to progress to a showpiece match in opposition to Actual Sociedad or Athletic Membership, but when one participant is able to stopping them, it’s Yamal.
Yamal scored a hat-trick as Barca trounced Villarreal 4-1 in LaLiga on Saturday, a consequence that did Atleti a favour as they battle the Yellow Submarine to complete third.
At 18 years and 230 days previous, Yamal turned the youngest participant to attain a hat-trick in LaLiga this century, however Simeone has a plan to counteract his brilliance.
“He’s an excellent participant, a game-changer, particularly within the remaining third,” Simeone stated.
“But when we are able to assault down that facet, we are able to drive him into the realm the place he feels most uncomfortable, which is defending.”
No matter it takes. pic.twitter.com/jTxGNxbUKW
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) March 2, 2026
Atleti could also be a great distance off the title tempo in LaLiga, however they routed Membership Brugge 4-1 within the Champions League final week and, on paper, have a form last-16 draw in opposition to Premier League strugglers Tottenham.
The membership’s final main trophy was the league title in 2020-21, however Simeone is optimistic about their hopes on a number of fronts.
“We’re doing properly within the Copa, doing properly within the Champions League… Many eventualities are attainable,” he stated.
“We’re good with the place we’re in, as a result of we’re preventing for what we would like.
“I gave all the things as a participant, and now I’m not on the pitch any extra, I wish to inform the lads that taking part in these sorts of matches is great.
“You should play with high quality, expertise, religion, management, and above all, dedication.”
