Simeone: Fans must be proud

Diego Simeone believes Atletico Madrid’s fans “must be proud” of their team after an “extraordinary” 2016, ended in La Liga with a win against Las Palmas.

Saul Niguez’s strike ensured Atleti ended the year on a victorious note, capping off a 12 months that has seen the side reach the Champions League final, progress to this season’s last 16 as group leaders and come close to a second League title under Simeone.

“We ended an extraordinary year in the League,” the Coach said after the game.

“The club and team managed to compete in the Champions League final, almost went the distance in La Liga, have qualified for the second round of this Champions League and started well in the Copa.

“It’s true that we haven’t started very consistently in the League, but we’ve had a fantastic year.

“I saw a very complete performance from the team in the first half, we had many chances and in the second, after we scored, it’s understandable that our opponents tried to hurt us.

“We responded well, but we didn’t score from any counterattacks. The result was fair.

“Possession? You can have arguments for possession and the number of chances.

“Las Palmas lateralised possession well and had a good game between the lines, but we were quick and powerful in space. It’s a shame that we didn’t take more of our chances. Still, we managed to play in the way we imagined.

“I saw a team that ended an extraordinary year, who have been competing for five years now.

“That’s very unusual and difficult to achieve, but it’s also true that in the League we’ve been inconsistent. so we have to improve. The Atleti fans must be proud of their team.

“Moya? His performance was very good and in accordance with what we expected from him.

“Winter break? It should allow us to rest and look for solutions. Saul had a brilliant game, Gabi as always, Sime too. Gameiro did a lot of work but couldn’t find a goal.

“You never stop to cut yourself off from football, although the break is there for us to enjoy our families and friends and revel in the great year we had.

“Any winter exits? I have no idea, but we’re hoping that no-one leaves, even though we have an open mind. We’re counting on these players to continue competing with us next year.”

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