Club are marooned in 17th place ahead of the trip to in-form Villareal
Diego Simeone has admitted victory would bring “relief” as Atletico Madrid search for their first win of the season, with pressure growing on the manager after a difficult opening month.
Atletico invested close to €200m in the summer transfer window in a bid to push the club closer to Real Madrid and Barcelona, but instead they have opened the season with a loss and two draws out of three games to find themselves just one spot above the relegation zone.
“Winning would be a relief, that’s the reality, the way I see it,” said Simeone ahead of the weekend’s home fixture against Villarreal. “I would feel relieved. The responsibility is huge.”
Atletico’s struggles extend beyond this season. The last time they won a trophy was in 2021 when they won La Liga. In the last four seasons they have finished third in the league three times. The club’s summer outlay was supposed to be a statement of intent, increasing concerns around the slow start.
On Saturday they host a Villareal team third in the table and still unbeaten, and a poor result will only subject the manager to further scrutiny.
“Over the last 14 years, we have built an enormous legacy, and we must maintain it,” said Simeone. “I am in a position where I am the most closely watched person, and I have to accept that.
“Tomorrow we need the fans to support the team and for us to play a good game. We need to work to make people feel connected to the team.”
