Diego Simeone stated it is “customary” that famous person ahead Julián Álvarez is being related to groups like Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, as Atlético Madrid get ready to host the Gunners of their Champions League semifinal first leg.
ESPN reported on Monday that Barça had made touch with Atlético over a conceivable summer season transfer for Álvarez — who has scored 9 Champions League targets this marketing campaign — despite the fact that the LaLiga leaders have been acutely aware of the demanding situations of pulling off any such deal.
Barcelona are searching for a centre-forward this summer season to exchange Robert Lewandowski, 37, who has been introduced a freelance extension, however on lowered phrases.
“I am not in Julián’s head,” Simeone stated in a information convention on Tuesday, when requested about Álvarez’s long term. “I keep in mind that it is customary that an odd participant like Julián Álvarez is sought after by way of Arsenal, PSG, Barcelona. It is customary as a result of he is so excellent.”
Álvarez scored as Atlético eradicated Barça 3-2 on combination in a dramatic Champions League quarterfinal tie.
Atlético’s hopes of silverware this season now leisure on Europe, when they misplaced the Copa del Rey ultimate to Actual Sociedad, and path neatly at the back of Barça and Actual Madrid within the LaLiga name race.
“It is odd that Atlético are in a Champions League semifinal once more, 9 years later, our fourth in 14 years,” Simeone stated. “It is not force, it is accountability. We are excited to be shut. It is a large function that the membership hasn’t ever accomplished.”
The trainer showed that winger Ademola Lookman, who has starred since arriving at Atlético mid-season, was once a doubt for Wednesday’s recreation.
“His arrival has had an have an effect on at the workforce,” Simeone stated. “He has some other qualities offensively…We’re going to see the next day to come if he can get better, as he had some discomfort these days.”
Membership captain Koke denied that Atlético have been motivated by way of handing over a significant trophy for veteran ahead Antoine Griezmann, earlier than he indicators for Orlando Town in MLS this summer season.
“If we will be able to say good-bye with the Champions League, it could be fantastic for everybody,” the midfielder stated.
“However all of us have the similar motivation, but even so Antoine’s farewell. This can be a workforce, and we play to check out to succeed in the utmost, and presently that is the Champions League.”