Simeone lauds Julián Álvarez as Liverpool challenge tests Atlético

Diego Simeone, coach of Atlético de Madrid, praised Julián Álvarez after the side fell 2‑1 to Liverpool in Tuesday’s Champions League encounter at Anfield, saying the Argentine took charge of the ball for the full ninety minutes and earned a starting place following their pre‑match talk.

Simeone’s assessment of Álvarez

“The match of Julián Álvarez was very good,” Simeone told reporters, adding that “he took charge of the ball all the time”. He noted that after a brief conversation the morning of the game he decided to start the Argentine, a decision that surprised many. The accompanying photo credit reads ADAM VAUGHAN / EFE, and in his briefing Simeone also referred to him simply as Alvarez.

Teammates voice frustration

Koke complained, “Estamos cansados del tema Julián, tenéis que dejarle, que juegue, que disfrute; lleváis un verano cansino”. Chema G. echoed the sentiment, urging the coaching staff to give the striker more freedom. The players’ frustration highlights a growing impatience within the squad.

Llorente and Zimmermann weigh in

Fuente Llorente warned, “It cannot be that he scores here again, this is already something”. Walter Zimmermann praised the performance, saying “The match of Julián was very good. He took charge of the ball from minute one to minute ninety”. He also mentioned the spelling Juulián Álvarez used in the official release.

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Simeone also highlighted Cristian ‘Cuti’ Romero, stating “His game was correct, strong, with hierarchy and showed the ability to resolve individual situations”. He stressed that Romero’s contribution complemented Álvarez’s impact, adding depth to the midfield.

Despite the praise, Simeone admitted the team must improve defensively in the Liga de Campeones. “When the second half does not match the first, it looks like we are not physically ready,” he observed, pointing to the two goals conceded. He warned that maintaining intensity for the full ninety minutes remains a priority.

The coach added that details matter, recalling the goals conceded in Bilbao, Sevilla and Villarreal. “We are still in construction and need to fine‑tune several aspects,” he concluded, urging the squad to work on those specifics. Training sessions will focus on defensive organisation.

In summary, Simeone’s endorsement of Álvarez sits alongside broader concerns about consistency and defensive lapses as Atlético de Madrid seeks to progress in the Champions League.