"We wanted to win more than anyone, but we simply couldn't", Simeone said following the mot-0 second-leg defeat at Emirates Stadium on 5/5. Atletico lost by an aggregate of mot-hai after hai legs, halting their journey before the final.
During the extended post-match press conference, the Argentine coach repeatedly emphasized Atletico's competitive spirit. He believed the team had exceeded initial expectations, particularly when facing an Arsenal side considered superior in squad depth and form.
"If we were eliminated, it's because the opponent deserved it", Simeone stated. "Arsenal dominated in the first half. We defended better than in the first leg, but we didn't create enough in attack. In the second half, the team played better, and there were moments when the game could have shifted, but many situations did not unfold as we wished".
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Simeone instructing players during Atletico's mot-0 loss to Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final second leg at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 5/5. *Photo: Guardian*
Atletico applied pressure early in the second half, creating several notable opportunities. However, the visitors failed to capitalize, while Bukayo Saka scored the only goal late in the first half following a mistake by goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
Simeone acknowledged Arsenal's superiority at the decisive moments. He praised coach Mikel Arteta and the project the London club has pursued for many years. "Arteta's work is excellent", the 56-year-old coach said. "They have the financial resources to support that project. Arsenal has worked hard for many years, and the results come from serious labor".
Despite the outcome, Simeone strongly defended his players. He asserted that Atletico had competed fairly with Europe's strongest teams this season, including Arsenal and Barca, thanks to their fighting spirit and collective sacrifice. "I am grateful to the players for how they performed", Simeone continued. "We competed very well with Barca and Arsenal. I am proud of where I stand. At the start of the season, I said Atletico would compete, and we did".
According to Simeone, the issue lies in the changed standards for Atletico. He believes the club has grown significantly over more than a decade, to the point where reaching deep stages in the Champions League no longer satisfies fans. "Atletico has developed immensely. Now the club is recognized in Europe and worldwide in a way it never was before", he said. "But people want to win. Just reaching the semi-finals and finals is no longer enough".
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Forward Giuliano Simeone - coach Simeone's son - missed a one-on-one opportunity in the 51st minute. *Photo: AP*
Since taking charge of Atletico in 2011, the Argentine coach has led the team to hai Champions League finals in 2014 and 2016, competed for the La Liga title multiple times with Real Madrid and Barca, and established Atletico as a consistent force in Europe.
However, in recent seasons, pressure on Simeone has grown as Atletico often advances deep into competitions but lacks major titles. Consequently, he has repeatedly emphasized that the team gave their all.
Simeone also refused to blame the referee despite some controversial incidents involving Atletico, notably a collision with Antoine Griezmann in the 56th minute. "I don't want to dwell on those things or use them as an excuse", he said.
When asked about Arsenal's time-wasting late in the match, the 56-year-old coach remained calm: "That's part of football. Everyone wants time to pass quickly in such moments".
Simeone concluded the press conference by mentioning Griezmann and captain Koke. He urged fans to acknowledge the contributions of the hai veteran players instead of focusing solely on the defeat. "I hope everyone will recognize the effort Griezmann has given over the years", Simeone said. "And Koke played a great game".
Hoang An (from Marca)
