Simeone hails transfer window at Atlético, looks ahead to Real Betis clash | OneFootball

On Wednesday, Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, spoke to the press about the team's preparation for their next match. The Spanish club faces Real Betis in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey this Thursday, starting at 5:00 PM (Brasília time), away from home.

Betis is currently fifth in La Liga and reached the quarterfinals after eliminating Elche in the previous round. Simeone warned about the difficulty of playing knockout matches.

“You imagine one thing beforehand and the match can turn out to be something completely different; you need to be prepared for the different scenarios that may arise. The opponent plays very well,” he said.

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Atlético strengthens the squad with three signings

Atlético was active in the transfer window and brought in three players to strengthen the squad for the season. Midfielders Obed Vargas and Rodrigo Mendonza, and forward Ademola Lookman, a major standout at Atalanta over the past four seasons. Simeone spoke about the new arrivals.

“Three important players have arrived, we will need them and we will work together to finish the season in the best way possible,” he stated.

Regarding Lookman, the 55-year-old coach highlighted his speed and physical strength in attack. The forward is unavailable for the match, but is expected to be present this Sunday in another clash against Betis in La Liga.

“You can see his physical strength, speed, power, and his change of pace in the final meters,” he emphasized.

Update on Griezmann

The coach provided an update on midfielder Antoine Griezmann. The player missed the last three matches due to a muscle problem.

“We already know what Antoine means to us, we need him for as many minutes as the team needs, he is well and we need him, whether starting or coming off the bench later,” he reported.

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