Simeone: “I hope João has the regularity that makes him grow”

Atlético coach Diego Pablo Simeone has appeared telematically before the media at the press conference prior to tomorrow's game at 6:30 p.m. against Osasuna in El Sadar.

Do you think that João is a matter of attitude as Saúl thinks?

It is your personal opinion. I have spoken of João many times. It is very important for us, he is in a very good moment and I hope he has the consistency that makes the players grow and position themselves in important places.

How is Saúl from his injury?

I am not a doctor to speak of muscle injuries. Not 100% yet. The doctor believes that for the Russian party it could be available. I hope he continues in this progression that he is having to be with us because we need him. He is a very important player for the team, he has shown it all these years that he has been with us and hopefully he can return as quickly as possible.

What does the defense lack to convey security from the past?

I think it is always bad to want to compare because that does not serve us. The circumstances are different, the characteristics of the footballers are different. I am not talking about individual situations in defense, I am talking about collective work. When the teamwork defensively is strong, the team benefits. We have to improve because our strength has always been to have a strong bloc, but we are growing in other aspects. We need to regulate and balance the situation.

Has having two fewer games in LaLiga benefited you?

Depending on how you want to see it. It depends on the results we would have achieved in those games. In LaLiga we have done things well so far and we need to continue with that regularity.

Do you think João has to go further up?

Everyone thinks what they want. I am very clear about what we need from João and there is evident growth, but not because of the game the other day.

Would you like to have Messi at Atlético?

It's very nice, but we think about match by match, about the importance of the footballers we have today competing with us. I see the team with enthusiasm, with enthusiasm, with great enthusiasm and with people who want to continue growing and hopefully we can demonstrate it with the only thing that counts, which are the facts on the field.

Is Torreira missing something? Are you asking for the option to sign someone now?

The club will always look for the best for the team when it comes to seeing what can be done. Right now we are absolutely busy on the team. Lucas has played four games, two as a starter and two entered in the second half. We believe that he is a player who is going to serve us, that he is going to give us a lot to help a lot, he really wants to join the team and is participating. What matters are the minutes, not the number of minutes one plays. We are going to need everyone because the championship is going to be tough.

Do you think it is time to give João freedom on the field?

Each footballer occupies an important place on the field. I do not consider that freedom is playing anywhere, but playing where it is most important for the team. Players are important when they do the team good.