Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has criticized La Liga’s decision to only postpone matches in the worst-affected areas around Valencia due to the severe weather.
Simeone and his team have to play against Las Palmas tomorrow, but do not understand that the entire round has not been stopped. “For many people this is a terrible tragedy and we must simply continue as if nothing is happening,” said the Argentinian. He calls it unwise and believes that the situation requires more empathy.
La Liga decided to only postpone the matches between Valencia and Real Madrid and Villarreal and Rayo Vallecano, because these clubs are in the immediate vicinity of the floods. However, Simeone has difficulty with that limitation.
“Terrible things are happening and it is emotional to see how people help each other,” he said during the press conference. “It is strange that we have to continue playing Football in such circumstances. It’s nonsensical, it doesn’t really make any sense.”
Barcelona coach Hansi Flick also sympathizes with the victims and shows understanding for Simeone’s position. Although Flick realizes that it is not an easy decision for La Liga to cancel an entire round of matches, he supports the idea of a complete stop. “This is a tragedy for an entire region. If we as a league can help in any way, we should do so. The rest is up to La Liga.”
Despite the concerns about the bad weather, Flick and Simeone are preparing their teams for their matches. Flick’s Barcelona will play Espanyol in the Catalan derby tomorrow, while Simeone and Atlético will face Las Palmas. Yet the situation surrounding the severe weather continues to hang like a shadow over the competition.
