Simeone has ´no doubt´ about Galan after struggles with Rodrygo and Yamal

Diego Simeone insists he has “no doubt” about Javi Galan’s ability, after the Atletico Madrid full-back’s struggles in recent weeks.

Galan struggled against Rodrygo during Atletico’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the opening leg of their Champions League last-16 tie.

The 30-year-old was also unconvincing against Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal when the sides played out an entertaining 4-4 draw in their Copa del Rey semi-final first leg.

But Simeone, who has generally preferred Galan to Reinildo at left-back this season, leapt to his player’s defence.

“Javi is giving his all, I have no doubt,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Sunday’s LaLiga trip to Getafe. “We are getting the best out of him, and he is helping us a lot. We need the best version of him.

“The other day, he suffered with Rodrygo, as most left-backs suffer. He suffered with Lamine, yes, as most full-backs suffer. We know his condition, his commitment and we need him.

“I consider what I’m doing. Javi is getting more minutes because it’s good for us as a team. We already know Reinildo’s defensive strengths, we have used him in some short spells.”

Atletico, who trails LaLiga leaders Barca by a single point, will be looking to return to the summit with victory over Getafe – a team they have already beaten twice this season.

“It’s clear that these will be different games to the ones we’ve played at the Metropolitano; they have an important strength at home,” Simeone added.

“They have improved a lot in attack. They have always controlled their intensity with their coach. We’ll have to take the game where we can hurt them.”

❝Getafe have an important strength at home. They have improved a lot in attack and have always managed the intensity that their coach proposes. I imagine a tough match❞.

— Simeone pic.twitter.com/qwkMr6cOUz

— Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) March 8, 2025