Simeone: I really liked Little Spider's attitude today; he will certainly grow and make a leap forward

After leading Atletico Madrid to a 2-1 away defeat against Liverpool in the first round of the Champions League league phase, head coach Diego Simeone was interviewed by Sky Sport Italia.

The team showed a very impressive start and attitude in this match, with an overall solid and organized performance during the first 40 minutes. However, Liverpool then scored two goals in succession to change the situation. How would you analyze and evaluate the overall process and result of the match?

A football match lasts 90 minutes, and Liverpool is undoubtedly an extremely strong team at the highest level. We showed many positive aspects and competitive elements worth studying in this game, but we also exposed many areas that still need further improvement. It is very clear that we have conceded too many goals in recent matches. If we want to maintain strong competitiveness in upcoming competitions and compete with top teams, we must make comprehensive and thorough improvements in defensive details and overall defensive stability.

This was Julian Alvarez's first start of the season. Considering your comments at yesterday's press conference, what were the considerations and reasons behind the decision to start him in this match? Were you satisfied with his overall performance today? He provided a direct assist during the game, but aside from that assist, how would you evaluate his overall competitive condition and performance throughout the match?

I really, really liked Julian's performance and attitude today. From the beginning of the match, he took responsibility for leading the team's attack, and he was always very proactive in looking for opportunities to control the ball and help organize the offense. From the first minute of the match until the final whistle in the 90th minute, regardless of the situation, he kept asking for the ball and wanted to control the rhythm of the game. He showed great competitive potential and fighting spirit, and he will certainly continue to grow and make a leap forward. For him, this match was definitely a very positive start. We are full of expectations and hope to see more and better performances from him in the future.

Besides that, I would also like to ask about your thoughts and evaluation of Jonathan David. He came on as a substitute late in the match and completed his personal debut for Atletico Madrid. Although his playing time was relatively short, only a few minutes, and he was unable to substantially change the final direction or score of the match, what did you observe about his performance and condition during those first few minutes on the pitch?

He showed an extremely strong desire to play, with very high motivation and a strong determination to prove himself and perform well for the team. The entire squad and coaching staff hope to provide him with help in all aspects as soon as possible, supporting him in gradually reaching his highest competitive level. At the same time, we look forward to him contributing all of his abilities and energy to the team without reservation, because the team currently needs the help he can bring.