Diego Simeone highlighted the financial gap between Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain after his team's horrific start to the Club World Cup.
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Article continues below
Article continues below
- Atletico thrashed 4-0 by PSG in Club World Cup
- Simeone frustrated with referee decisions
- Argentine praises team’s intent despite loss
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Atletico were outclassed in their Club World Cup opener, falling 4-0 to PSG. Despite some bright moments, including a disallowed goal that could have shifted the momentum, Atleti struggled to cope with PSG’s aggressive pressing and quick transitions. Defender Clement Lenglet was sent off, further compounding their problems.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
The defeat underlined the gulf in squad depth and quality between the two clubs. Los Rojiblancos' inability to respond to PSG's pace and precision highlighted the limitations of their current squad especially when compared to a team that can spend big mid-season to fix weaknesses.
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WHAT SIMEONE SAID
Simeone was honest in his assessment and said: “From the perspective of intent and commitment, I saw a team that always wanted to do it, but couldn’t. PSG were better, superior… took the ball away from us.”
They 55-year-old also pointed the French club's financial muscle: “When Luis Enrique needed help on the left wing, they [PSG] spent €70m in January to sign someone [Khvicha Kvaratskhelia].”
The Argentine dismissed referee talk and stayed focused on moving forward: “After 14 years, I'm done talking about referees. Enough, I'm tired. The goal difference was tough… but we’re focused on the 19th. There’s still competition ahead.”
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WHAT NEXT?
Atletico must bounce back quickly, with two key group games remaining in the Club World Cup. Wins against Seattle and Botafogo are crucial if they want to avoid an early exit and Simeone will be hoping to restore belief and structure before the next clash.
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