Diego Simeone believes forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is the best way to make him uncomfortable, ahead of Atletico Madrid’s Copa del Rey showdown with Barcelona.
Atleti are defending a 4-0 lead over the Blaugrana as they look to reach their first domestic cup final since 2012-13, with the second leg taking place at Camp Nou on Tuesday.
Simeone’s side are overwhelming favourites to progress to a showpiece match against Real Sociedad or Athletic Club, but if one player is capable of stopping them, it is Yamal.
Yamal scored a hat-trick as Barca trounced Villarreal 4-1 in LaLiga on Saturday, a result that did Atleti a favour as they battle the Yellow Submarine to finish third.
At 18 years and 230 days old, Yamal became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in LaLiga this century, but Simeone has a plan to counteract his brilliance.
“He’s a very good player, a game-changer, especially in the final third,” Simeone said.
“But if we can attack down that side, we can force him into the area where he feels most uncomfortable, which is defending.”
Whatever it takes. pic.twitter.com/jTxGNxbUKW
— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) March 2, 2026
Atleti may be a long way off the title pace in LaLiga, but they routed Club Brugge 4-1 in the Champions League last week and, on paper, have a kind last-16 draw against Premier League strugglers Tottenham.
The club’s last major trophy was the league title in 2020-21, but Simeone is optimistic about their hopes on multiple fronts.
“We’re doing well in the Copa, doing well in the Champions League… Many scenarios are possible,” he said.
“We’re good with the position we’re in, because we’re fighting for what we want.
“I gave everything as a player, and now I’m not on the pitch any more, I want to tell the lads that playing these kinds of matches is wonderful.
“You need to play with quality, talent, faith, leadership, and above all, determination.”
