Diego Simeone has discussed Karim Benzema, Radamel Falcao, the Madrid derby and why he does not believe in players swapping shirts.
The Atletico Madrid Coach covered a number of topics in an interview published today, curiously picking out rivals Real Madrid’s striker Karim Benzema for some encouragement.
“Benzema would be better if he had more opportunities, if he played more he could be like Falcao,” commented El Cholo to ABC Punto Radio today, before turning his attention to his own forward.
“Falcao is the best No 9 in the world. Always there will be an important relationship with him, everything that happens to Radamel makes me happy, because I have known him for years.
“We were at River Plate and he could not understand my departure, and the day that I left he said he wanted an explanation. He knew how I worked and today he is the best No 9 in the world.”
Simeone thought back to a talk with the player before the Europa League Final, when he felt the Colombian was sure to be sold in the summer.
“When we play a final I never talk to the players on the day of the game, I think it is their day and as Coach I just have to accompany them. Mono Burgos and I gave a talk at 11 the night before, talking individually to each of them.
“With Falcao I said that I wanted one of his two shirts from one of the last games of the season, the final in Bucharest or the game against Villarreal on the last day of the season, I did not know how much longer we would be working together.”
Simeone faces the Madrid derby in the coming weeks, with Atleti currently sat above Real Madrid in the table.
“How many games are in a season? How many are against Madrid and Barca? Usually you have to win every game other than against Madrid and Barca, I have to win the game against the former.”
The former midfielder also spoke of his time in the Argentina national team under Coach Carlos Salvador Bilardo and revealed a curious belief held on to.
“He always said that the shirt is not to be exchanged with the opponent, because our shirt is worth more than yours. I cannot give my shirt to a rival for theirs.”
