From the transfer drama of Julian Alvarez to Antoine Griezmann’s final European bow before heading to Orlando, the Metropolitano will be rocking. Yankee Scores has your full preview of the clash that could define Diego Simeone’s legacy.
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is not bothered about his star forward, Julian Alvarez being linked to teams like Barcelona, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
The Julian Alvarez Speculation
Hie made the comments ahead of Atletico Madrid clash with Arsenal at Wanda Metropolitano tomorrow, Wednesday.
Alvarez has been linked to a move to Barcelona in recent months. Though La Liga table toppers are aware of the high price tag. Barcelona are looking for a replacement for their top striker Robert Lewandowski.
Simeone Reacts
“I’m not in Julián’s head,” Simeone said in a news conference on Tuesday, when asked about Álvarez’s future. “I understand that it’s normal that an extraordinary player like Julián Álvarez is wanted by Arsenal, PSG, Barcelona. It’s normal because he’s so good.”
Alvarez who has nine Champions League goals is seen as ideal striker that can lead the attack for Barcelona years to come.
“It’s extraordinary that Atlético are in a Champions League semifinal again, nine years later, our fourth in 14 years,” Simeone said. “It’s not pressure, it’s responsibility. We’re excited to be close. It’s a huge objective that the club has never achieved.”
Álvarez scored as Atlético eliminated Barça 3-2 on aggregate in a dramatic Champions League quarterfinal tie.
“His arrival has had an impact on the team,” Simeone said. “He has some different qualities offensively…We’ll see tomorrow if he can recover, as he had some discomfort today.”
Álvarez netted as Atléti knocked out Barça 3-2 on aggregate in a dramatic Champions League quarterfinal tie.
Silverware Hopes for Atletico
Atletico’s hopes of securing a silverware this season now rests with the Champions League. They lost Copa Dey Rey final to Real Sociedad, and the third-place finish is the best they can achieve in the La Liga current campaign.
Simeone added that Ademola Lookman is doubtful for Wednesday’s game.
Does Griezmann Exit Motivate?
Club captain Koke dismissed the rumour that Atlético were motivated by delivering a major trophy for veteran forward Antoine Griezmann, before he signs for Orlando City in MLS this summer.
“If we can say goodbye with the Champions League, it would be incredible for everyone,” the midfielder said.
“But we all have the same motivation, besides Antoine’s farewell. This is a team, and we play to try to achieve the maximum, and right now that’s the Champions League.”
