Simeone discusses Barrios and Grimaldo, stressing management and development

Diego Simeone discussed Barrios and Grimaldo while addressing the upcoming match, his team’s form and several individual players. The Atlético de Madrid coach spoke after the team’s final training session before travelling to Barcelona, where they were due to face Espanyol on Saturday at 14:00.

Asked about the young player’s potential, Simeone stressed that praise should not hold back his development. “In his growth, in his pursuit of what he wants, let these words not weaken him, but remind him that he knows he is very important to the team and that he must show it: the pitch is what ultimately judges footballers, and Pablo is very important to us,” the coach said.

Simeone also said he wanted to manage a player’s playing time carefully, adding that the player was feeling better and stronger each day. He would like to be able to play him for 90 minutes, but stressed the need to look after him so he can deliver his best throughout the season.

On Alejandro Grimaldo, Simeone highlighted the player’s attacking contribution, describing him as a winger playing at full-back who gives the team options both inside and out. The work also includes his defending: Simeone said the player was being helped to improve in that area and continue contributing to the team.