Diego Simeone has called for patience with Julián Álvarez after the striker missed a string of chances in Atlético Madrid’s 2-1 home defeat to Barcelona on Sunday.
Álvarez created the opening goal for Giuliano Simeone but failed to convert several clear opportunities of his own as two well-taken strikes from Fermín López secured victory for the side the Argentine had hoped to join in the summer.
“Julián had a good game,” Simeone said. “As well as the chances he had, he was also involved in several other attacking moves. On top of setting up Giuliano’s goal, he also delivered a cross for [an Alex] Baena chance. We all wanted him to get that goal, but we’ll be patient with him because he’s a great player.
“We love him and, if we’re going to achieve what we want to achieve, we need Julián at his best — otherwise we won’t get there.”
Álvarez was initially jeered by Atlético fans this season after trying to force a move to Barcelona, a decision he has since apologised for. Simeone managed his minutes carefully at first, but the forward has now started the last five games in all competitions and scored twice.
Despite the loss, Simeone praised his team’s overall performance, saying they pressed well and played the game they wanted, but were simply less clinical than Barcelona. Fermín López finished both his chances expertly, the second coming after a brilliant pass from Lamine Yamal.
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick admitted his side improved significantly after half-time, particularly once Frenkie de Jong entered the game. The win keeps Barça top of La Liga by three points over Real Madrid, while Atlético drop to third, five points off the pace after their seven-game winning streak ended.