Diego Simeone has reflected that Atletico Madrid’s current form does have one downside, in that he struggles to pick his starting line-up each game.
The Argentine has so far rotated the first XI between League and European commitments this season, but in seeing Atleti win every game in the Europa League and all but one of their games in La Liga, is struggling to leave anyone out.
“It’s complicated. We are in a phase in which every game the team is full of possibilities because they are all doing well,” he told reporters today.
“There is strength in the group, but it makes it hard for the Coach. Still what guides me is that in every game there is no compromise given to anyone, the obligation is only to win.
“I have an idea [for this weekend’s game], but there are minimal doubts surrounding Arda Turan. I have to decide between two or three players still.”
The latest set of line-up decisions is with the visit of Osasuna this Sunday in mind.
“I have seen them but on their field they are different because the support and belief is greater. But, their features are the same, they are powerful, good on the wings.
“We’ll see them as a collective block. We must continue aggressively, we have to maintain our form and adjust how we play for who we play.”
Atleti go into the game in form and with continued praise for their performances. Beyond Radamel Falcao, who Simeone again today endorsed as one of the best strikers in the world, focus has been on the strong back-line.
“We always work well. The defence is important because it keeps you in the game. But, this requires a collective effort.
“You are seeing a group effort and it is a greater group effort that is behind the better defence.”
The Coach also made a point of refusing to take the plaudits for the team’s start for himself.
“I’m no hero of this situation because it is down to the players. When at this level for a month it is as if it has been forever. There is mutual respect and they have played well and how we have intended. It hurts to leave players out, but they ask me to take everyone into account.
“I’m happy. I live day by day and everything that happens is not decisive. The stories have been nice to read, but meanwhile, it is day by day. I am only a little sentimental, I like what is concrete and strong.”