Diego Simeone believes forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is one of the simplest ways to make him uncomfortable, forward of Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona.
Atleti are defending a 4-0 lead over the Blaugrana as they appear to achieve their first home cup ultimate since 2012-13, with the second leg happening at Camp Nou on Tuesday.
Simeone’s facet are overwhelming favourites to progress to a showpiece match towards Actual Sociedad or Athletic Membership, but when one participant is able to stopping them, it’s Yamal.
Yamal scored a hat-trick as Barca trounced Villarreal 4-1 in LaLiga on Saturday, a outcome that did Atleti a favour as they battle the Yellow Submarine to complete third.
At 18 years and 230 days previous, Yamal turned the youngest participant to attain a hat-trick in LaLiga this century, however Simeone has a plan to counteract his brilliance.
“He’s an excellent participant, a game-changer, particularly within the ultimate third,” Simeone mentioned.
“But when we will assault down that facet, we will drive him into the world the place he feels most uncomfortable, which is defending.”
No matter it takes. pic.twitter.com/jTxGNxbUKW
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) March 2, 2026
Atleti could also be a great distance off the title tempo in LaLiga, however they routed Membership Brugge 4-1 within the Champions League final week and, on paper, have a sort last-16 draw towards Premier League strugglers Tottenham.
The membership’s final main trophy was the league title in 2020-21, however Simeone is optimistic about their hopes on a number of fronts.
“We’re doing effectively within the Copa, doing effectively within the Champions League… Many eventualities are attainable,” he mentioned.
“We’re good with the place we’re in, as a result of we’re combating for what we wish.
“I gave all the pieces as a participant, and now I’m not on the pitch any extra, I wish to inform the lads that enjoying these sorts of matches is great.
“It is advisable to play with high quality, expertise, religion, management, and above all, willpower.”