Diego Simeone hopeful of Atlético Madrid title tilt next season | OneFootball

Diego Simeone has claimed the nature of this season will give his Atlético Madrid side plenty of motivation for next term.

Atleti came into the campaign as defending LaLiga champions, but in the end had to battle to secure third spot and qualification for a tenth consecutive Champions League.

Los Rojiblancos brought the curtain down with a 2-1 win at Real Sociedad on Sunday, with second-half goals from Rodrigo De Paul and Ángel Correa enough to make Jon Guridi’s stoppage-time effort a mere consolation for the hosts.

“It was a tough, difficult season, we need to rest,” Simeone said afterwards, per MARCA.

“It was not easy from the beginning, it cost. We know the situations that were and it will be great to reverse it.

“Compared to last season it seems little. We round off a good season that leaves us in a privileged place.”

The Argentine made no bones, however, about what the expectation will be in 2022/23.

“After becoming champion it is not easy to settle for third place. Winning is becoming champion and it is not easy. The rebelliousness of the players gives us hope,” he said.

Atleti finished just two points behind Barcelona, but a full 15 points off champions and arch rivals Real Madrid.