Simeone: Barcelona are ‘playing a different sport’ in La Liga

Diego Simeone has praised Barcelona’s outstanding start to the La Liga season, saying they are performing at a level that feels completely different from the football played by Atletico de Madrid.

“Barcelona are playing extremely well. In truth, it is as if they are playing a different sport from the one we are,” Atletico manager Simeone told ESPN.

Barcelona have won all of their league matches so far and lead the table with 21 points. They are five points clear of second-placed Atletico de Madrid.

Simeone also highlighted the scoring form of Barcelona’s forwards, particularly Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.

“Barcelona did not have a striker, and then suddenly Raphinha appeared and scored 12 goals in seven matches,” he said.

“I believe Lamine Yamal has scored seven goals. The numbers are unbelievable.”

Simeone added that Barcelona’s approach makes them difficult to contain, regardless of where the match is being played.

“They press you in your own stadium and they are not afraid to take risks, even if that means conceding a goal,” he said.

“Barcelona are the best team in La Liga at this moment.”

Atletico’s second-place position follows their 2-1 victory over Real Madrid in the seventh round of La Liga. The match was played at Riyadh Air Metropolitano.

Real Madrid dropped to third place and are six points behind leaders Barcelona.