Diego Simeone says Atletico Madrid are facing a difficult start to the new season, with only nine days remaining before the campaign begins and 10 international players yet to return after appearing in the World Cup semi-finals and final.
The Spanish club’s preparations have been further disrupted by the absence of a fully assembled squad. Atletico have not yet been able to train or play together as a complete group, with their latest warm-up ending in defeat by Manchester City at the conclusion of their Asian tour.
Speaking after the match, Simeone acknowledged that the players involved in the World Cup were entitled to take their holidays, but admitted he was seriously concerned about Atletico’s lack of preparation.
“Honestly, I am worried because there are only nine days left before the tournament starts. We have not yet been able to train together as a group, or even play as a team. We will certainly face some difficulties, and we have to prepare for them now,” said the Argentine manager.
Atletico did, however, take encouragement from the performance of young forward Jorge Dominguez, who scored his first goal for the senior side against Manchester City.
The teenager’s display prompted strong praise from Simeone, who believes the academy graduate can make a genuine contribution to the first team. The manager also suggested that age would not prevent Dominguez from earning a place in his plans if he continued to demonstrate his ability.
“We know that he is an important player and that he can help us. For me, there is no maximum age for footballers. If they do not have the ability to prove their worth, they will not be part of the team. If he continues in this way, it is clear that we have an important player who is developing,” Simeone said.
He also stressed the need to manage Dominguez’s progress carefully rather than placing immediate pressure on him.
“We have to support him, not rush him into playing, and protect him. We will look after him because he is a young player who can help us,” added Simeone, indicating that the academy product could feature during the season while being introduced gradually.
The manager also discussed new signing Kang-in Lee, who made a brief appearance against Manchester City. Simeone said the South Korea international would require time to adjust to his new surroundings and regain the rhythm needed to contribute fully.
“He will gradually find the rhythm of play that he needs and that the team needs. We will certainly need the adaptation period that all footballers go through, especially from a physical point of view,” said Simeone.
Kang-in Lee’s eventual position remains open, with Simeone highlighting the player’s ability to operate in several roles.
“I do not know, because he can play on the right wing, as an inside left winger, as a left midfielder, or as an attacking midfielder. He is a footballer who adapts to different systems because of his qualities, and we will try to place him in the position where we believe he can benefit the team,” he said.
