Simeone focused on Barcelona challenge rather than La Liga landmark

Diego Simeone has played down the prospect of setting a La Liga record when Atletico Madrid face Barcelona on Sunday, insisting his attention is solely on the match.

A victory would move Atletico Madrid to the top of the league and give Simeone his 345th win in the competition, making him the manager with the most victories in La Liga history. However, the Argentine said the potential achievement was not influencing his preparations.

“I am not thinking about that; I am thinking about the match,” Simeone said. “From now on, whatever comes will be welcome.”

Simeone has brought Koke back into his starting line-up, with the Atletico Madrid captain expected to help his side cope with Barcelona’s intense pressing.

The manager said Koke’s composure in possession could be particularly important against a team that seeks to put opponents under sustained pressure.

“We know that we can start the match this way, and we hope Koke can give us the calmness in our play that he possesses against an opponent who presses extremely well,” Simeone said. “We know they will force us to remain alert.”

Barcelona arrive with the strongest attack in the league, having scored 46 goals, while Atletico Madrid have the best defensive record after conceding only eight.

Despite that contrast, Simeone rejected the idea that stopping Barcelona’s attack represented an exceptional or unique challenge for his team.

“No, it is just a match an important and exciting match, and a great opportunity to show the team’s ability,” he said. “We hope we can prove that on the pitch.”

The Atletico Madrid manager also highlighted the influence of the supporters at the Metropolitano before the meeting, saying their contribution could again prove decisive on home soil.

“Our fans are always decisive and influential when we play at home,” he said.