In this round, Atletico Madrid visit Levante. At the pre-match press conference, coach Simeone addressed several topics, including forward Lookman's form.
Barcelona seemed unbeatable, but now you are only two points behind them.
We still stick to the principle of taking it one game at a time. Levante have always been a tough opponent. They are very strong at home and have a clear game plan. We must make the game go in the direction we want.
The recent high-speed rail accident has cast a somber mood over this round of La Liga.
These are difficult times, and we stand with the families who have lost loved ones. In this tough moment, we must show respect and hope that things can be resolved in the best possible way.
How do you assess Morten Hjulmand's adaptation?
He works very hard and competes with excellent players like Koke, Barrios and Johnny Cardoso. Rodrigo Mendoza and Obed Vargas can also help us. Morten Hjulmand has a strong personality, and we need him at his best. He is also working hard to improve, and he wants to keep progressing to the level that we and he wish to see.
You will play Barcelona twice in one month (February). Does this affect the fairness of the league?
It's always arranged this way: a league match is brought forward to make room for the Copa del Rey. I don't overthink it. It's a decision made because of the packed schedule. We play Barcelona at home first, then away, and that hasn't changed.
What do you think of Arnau and Lookman?
Arnau is young and still developing, and he's very motivated. It hasn't been easy for him to get to this point, and he has to compete with his teammates for playing time.
Lookman's form isn't as good as when he first arrived, but we need him. We know what level he can reach. Players need to show their improvement in training to earn opportunities.
The referees will hold a press conference after the match.
I hope they have a good discussion afterward and talk about both the good and the bad of what happened previously.
Has the team reached its best form?
It's hard to reach 100% of the ideal form. That is a very high standard. To get close, we need to manage our physical energy sensibly, rotate players and make full use of their abilities. Against a strong home side, we need to show excellent teamwork, play a good game and steer it in a direction where we can create threats.
How do you adjust the mental state?
I focus on ourselves. We will have good spells and spells when we perform averagely. That's life. In La Liga, you encounter all sorts of situations. Only by overcoming difficulties quickly can you have the strength to contend for the championship.