Diego Pablo Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, commented on his satisfaction after the 1‑0 victory over Deportivo de La Coruña, highlighting the importance of discipline and the attitude of his players. In an interview with the press, the coach described the game as “tough and difficult,” pointing out that the team had problems recovering the ball in the first half and that, when they did recover it, it was difficult for them to execute the play they imagined.
To overcome this obstacle, Simeone made tactical changes that gave more energy and strength to the players, allowing them to press higher and generate scoring opportunities. “The goal came and we had three more chances with dangerous shots,” explained the coach, highlighting that the 1-0 score “is always short” and that the team panicked in the last minutes when Deportivo could tie. Fortunately, luck was in their favor and the result stood.
The central topic of the interview was the recent gesture of apology by Julián, a player who had been the subject of controversy. Simeone expressed his appreciation for those who ask for forgiveness "from the emotional point of view, from the feeling." “Julián is a magnificent boy, humble, hard-working and respectful, and his teammates love him,” said the coach. “I thank you for your forgiveness because it places you in the place you are” and added that he does not intend to judge whether the action was correct or not, but rather that life moves forward and situations change.
Simeone also spoke about the fans' reaction to Julián's "great game", which recalled the player's performance in the Champions League the previous day. “People shouted the goal as if it were theirs, and that shows the level of commitment and connection with the public,” he commented. The coach stressed that the club needs Julián in that tone of play to meet the objectives and satisfy the fans.
Finally, the coach highlighted that the reconciliation process was experienced calmly, remembering that Julián has always behaved well with players, teammates, physiotherapists and the press. “He is returning to the place he had last season,” concluded Simeone, while the fans celebrated the result and Julián's role on the scoreboard, remembering his contribution both in Stuttgart and in the current match.