Simeone: “Possibly we are in a difficult moment”

Diego Pablo Simeone spoke to the media in the preview of the match against Betis (Sunday, 16:15). The Atlético coach avoided talking about referees, praised his rival and asked for the support of the fans before a very important game.

Betis is one of the best rivals in attack. Is defense the aspect that worries you the most and is working the most?

Betis is playing very well, with a coach who had leading teams wherever he was. They are in a great moment. We always want to improve as a team and from there we will improve in attack and defense.

Do you think the referees should look more at the plan to stop João with fouls?

It is not something we should dwell on. The referee is the one who decides what is to cut the game and what is a foul. We take care to improve and grow and seek the best as a team.

How do you explain that many more goals are conceded than in other years?

Each season is different, the beginnings cannot be related to use with others and in this one we are fitting more than in others, as the numbers say.

Griezmann, João and Suárez. Has the trident convinced you?

They have worked well in both games (Real and Levante). In what is asked of each one for the group, a good job has been seen.

Can it be said that the team is ‘under construction’? Where is the team going and where is it in evolution?

In all seasons there are always moments of difficulty. In the previous one we had a bad time in March and April, where the results were difficult for us. But the first lap was fantastic. Possibly we are going through a difficult time. All teams go through this stage and those that are strengthened from the work of these situations are the ones that later achieve the objectives. This is an important game and the team needs to be strong and clothed. I ask people to stay with the team for the whole game because we are going to need them.