Diego Simeone believes that forcing Lamine Yamal to defend is the best way to make him feel uncomfortable, ahead of the Copa del Rey clash between Atlético Madrid and 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 the Camp Nou on Tuesday.
Simeone’s team is a big favorite to advance to a key match against Real Sociedad or Athletic Club, but if there is a player capable of stopping them, it is Yamal.
Yamal scored a hat-trick as Barca defeated Villarreal 4-1 in LaLiga on Saturday, a result that did Atleti a favor as they battle the Yellow Submarine to finish third.
At 18 years and 230 days, Yamal became the youngest player to score a hat-trick in LaLiga this century, but Simeone has a plan to counter his brilliance.
“He is a very good player, he changes the game, especially in the final third,” Simeone said.
“But if we can attack on that side, we can force him into the area where he feels most uncomfortable, which is the defense.”
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 defeated Club Brugge 4-1 in the Champions League last week and, on paper, have a friendly last-16 draw against Premier League-challenged Tottenham.
The club’s last major trophy was the league title in 2020-21, but Simeone is optimistic about its hopes on multiple fronts.
“We are doing well in the Cup, in the Champions League… There are many possible scenarios,” he said.
“We are fine with the position we are in, because we are fighting for what we want.
“I gave everything as a player and now that I am no longer on the field, I want to tell the boys that playing these types of games is wonderful.
“You have to play with quality, talent, faith, leadership and, above all, determination.”
