Simeone Names Barcelona ‘Best’ Team in LaLiga After Atletico Beat Real Madrid

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has described Barcelona as the best team in LaLiga so far this season following his side’s 2-1 victory over Real Madrid.

Simeone made the assessment after Atletico secured a derby win over their city rivals on Sunday, a result that further widened the gap between Real Madrid and league leaders Barcelona.

Real Madrid were reduced to 10 men after Dean Huijsen was shown a red card early in the second half. Atletico took advantage, with Alejandro Grimaldo and Jonathan David finding the net before Antonio Rudiger scored a late consolation goal for Madrid.

Following the match, Simeone was asked about the current state of the LaLiga title race and singled out Barcelona for praise.

“It seems Barcelona are playing a different sport from the one we’re playing,” Simeone told ESPN.

The Atletico boss pointed to Barcelona’s attacking output and ability to pressure opponents as key reasons for his assessment.

“They didn’t have a number 9 striker, then Raphinha showed up and scored 12 goals. And Yamal, if I’m not mistaken, scored 7,” he said.

Simeone also praised Barcelona’s aggressive pressing style and willingness to take risks during matches.

“They press you in your own stadium and steal your time, and they don’t fear taking risks and conceding a goal,” he added.

He concluded his assessment emphatically, saying: “They are the BEST now.”

Simeone’s comments come as Atletico celebrate a significant derby victory, while Barcelona remain the team he considers to have set the standard in LaLiga at this stage of the season