Diego Simeone explains reason for withdrawing Joao Felix
One of the interesting incidents that occurred in the match between Atletico Madrid and Sevilla yesterday was the cheering of host supporters to Diego Simeone. They seemed to disagree with the manager’s decision to pull out Joao Felix.
At the 27th Jornada of the Spanish La Liga, last Sunday (08/03) Atletico Madrid did face Sevilla. The party was held at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano, Madrid.
Playing as host in the match, Diego Simeone’s troops were left behind after Luuk De Jong’s goal scored. Luckily Alvaro Morata successfully equalized through the penalty spot.
Joao Felix then reversed the position to 2-1 thanks to his goal in the 36th minute. Unfortunately, before the break the goal of the goal Jan Oblak conceded by Joan Ocampos penalty.
The 2-2 draw draws him to stay until the game ends. That is, no goals were created in the second half. But one interesting thing that happened in the second half, Atletico Madrid coach pulled out Joao Felix.
In fact, at that time the Portuguese player was very reliable to score again and bring Los Rojiblancos to win. No wonder the manager’s decision made Atletico Madrid supporters disappointed.
They then cheered Diego Simeone related to the decision. However, the Argentine manager has a reason behind it. He stressed that the team doctor had warned that Joao Felix’s physical condition was not good.
“Of course I can’t tell everyone that Felix has a muscle injury. The doctor told me to be careful because Felix gets cramped,”
“Everyone might be disappointed because he scored in the first half and played very well throughout the game, but I have to be careful. This decision is the best. I’m not disappointed with Felix’s performance, “Simeone explained to reporters.
Meanwhile, the draw against Sevilla only gave birth to one point for Atletico Madrid, meaning they are still stuck in fifth position in the standings. Of the 27 matches, Diego Simeone’s troops only collected 45 points.
However, there are still 11 more matches to play in the rest of the season. Of course Atletico still has the opportunity to penetrate the top four.