According to a report by Barca Universal on Monday, November 9, 2026, Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has acknowledged that Barcelona deserved their 2-1 victory at the Metropolitano, admitting that the visitors were more effective in front of goal despite his team's competitive performance.

The Argentine tactician refused to blame his players for the disappointing result, instead praising their efforts while recognising that Hansi Flick's side made better use of the opportunities available to them.

Simeone explained that Atletico successfully implemented their pressing approach for considerable periods of the encounter, forcing Barcelona into difficult situations and making it challenging for the visitors to establish complete control.

However, he admitted that his players lacked the clinical finishing they had demonstrated in previous matches. Barcelona, on the other hand, showed greater composure in attacking situations and punished Atletico whenever opportunities presented themselves.

When questioned about whether the Catalan side deserved to win, Simeone accepted the outcome, pointing out that the visitors scored twice while his team managed only one goal.

The Atletico manager also dismissed suggestions that physical fitness was responsible for the defeat. Instead, he highlighted the influence of substitutions and how changes made during matches can affect the direction of a contest.

According to Simeone, Atletico enjoyed approximately 50 strong minutes before Barcelona gradually took control. He also referenced missed opportunities involving Alex Baena and Alexander Sorloth, suggesting that taking advantage of those situations could have produced a different result.

Simeone further acknowledged that substitutes do not always deliver the expected impact, particularly when facing opponents of Barcelona's quality. Nevertheless, he maintained that he was satisfied with his players' overall commitment.

The Argentine also came to the defence of Julian Alvarez, who failed to find the net despite contributing to several attacking situations. He praised the forward's involvement in Giuliano Simeone's opening goal, which came through his assist.

He also highlighted Alvarez's second-half attempt to chip the goalkeeper and his cross towards Baena as evidence of his contribution.

Simeone concluded by expressing confidence in the Argentine striker, insisting that he remains an important part of Atletico Madrid's plans for the remainder of the season.