Former Atletico Madrid boss Radomir Antic is concerned by Los Rojiblancos recent form and being six points behind rivals Real Madrid is ‘disappointing’.
The 67-year-old had three different stints managing Atletico between 1995 and 2000 but believes that recent investment and performances have rocketed expectations and requirements at the club.
"After two defeats against Sevilla and Real Sociedad, people are beginning to mention that this is the worst stage under Simeone,” explained Antic.
"Being at this stage, six points behind Real Madrid, is disappointing and fourth cannot be an option, and investment has raised expectations for the club."
However, the Serbian took time to praise current boss Diego Simeone’s skill of working the media along with his coaching talents.
"It is true that he (Simeone) has become one of the best coaches in the modern game, but he is also good with the press," Antic continued.
“Not only does he control what happens on the pitch, but he controls what happens off it – he knows how to send messages in the right way so that they reach the right people.
"In addition to motivating the players on the pitch, he has transferred that energy onto the sideline and into the stands.”
Atletico have the chance to close the gap to their Los Blancos city rivals to three points as the two clash on Saturday night.
