Yesterday, Italian midfielder Alessio Cerci stated he was not comfortable with his role as a substitute in Atletico Madrid. Today, his coach Diego Simeone stated he did not take the player's words literally, since he is considering him and other players to be a part of the team for the rest of the season.
"When you've got Mandzukic, Griezmann, Raul Jimenez and Cerci, you have to choose whoever is fittest. Not everyone can play, and we surely don't want him to leave the team. He has to keep working both individually and as part of the team, then we'll see how things go," Simeone stated.
Asked about Mexican striker Raul Jimenez, who has been criticized by Atletico's fans, Simeone shared his thoughts on how the American player can fit with the team, and dismissed any intention of transferring him in January.
"I have never stopped trusting him. I just told him I saw his two goals with Mexico the other day, and he kept on smiling about it. He is doing fine, and the only reason for him being a sub is that I decided so, but I've got no doubt that he's got what it takes to make it here. I just hope he keeps training with the same intensity, and his time will come," the Argentinian commented.
Simeone praised Atletico's next opponent, stating they have done a fantastic job so far.
"Usually, we think about a team and their last results, but they have had a great season so far. They stopped Barcelona when they were playing beautifully, and it's no surprise what they have accomplished so far. It will be a tough game for us," the coach added.
