Simeone calls on whole Atletico squad to contribute amid inconsistent form

Diego Simeone insisted that Atletico Madrid “need everyone” to work together if they are to build a winning run.

Atleti lost 3-0 to Rayo Vallecano in LaLiga at the weekend, just three days after thrashing Barcelona 4-0 in the first leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final.

They have only won back-to-back matches once since the turn of the year, leaving them fourth in LaLiga and in the play-offs of the Champions League.

They must face Club Brugge for a spot in the last 16, with the first leg taking place in Belgium on Wednesday.

Ahead of the trip, Simeone was asked about the defensive partnership of Marc Pubill and David Hancko, but the coach reiterated his desire for overall team performances.

“The Pubill and Hancko partnership? You can clearly see what both can contribute,” said Simeone.

“They connect well because of their characteristics. They need to improve some things, like everyone. They are giving us things that the team is doing very well.

“The other day, [Jose Maria] Gimenez was good, [Clement] Lenglet didn’t have a good afternoon, but we need everyone. The team belongs to everyone, not just 10 players.”

Touchdown in pic.twitter.com/frKtHsiQfR

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 17, 2026

Brugge and Atleti have faced each other on eight previous occasions in Europe, with both sides picking up three victories apiece (two draws).

They also have the same number of wins (two) in games in the European Cup/Champions League specifically (two draws).

Atleti are on their longest losing run away from home in the knockout stages of the European Cup/Champions League (four), losing to Manchester City in 2021-22, Inter and Borussia Dortmund in 2023-24 and Real Madrid in 2024-25.

When asked about their goals in the competition, Simeone responded: “The objective is to go through and reach the next round, and then go as far as possible.”