Atletico still searching for a forward after Elche win, says Simeone

Diego Simeone revealed Atletico Madrid remain in the market for a forward after defeating Elche 1-0 win on Sunday.

Angel Correa’s third goal in two games at the start of the new season proved decisive as Atletico battled to back-to-back opening victories – the fourth time they have done so under Simeone.

The makeshift striker’s 39th-minute finish marked his eighth goal in his last 10 games across all competitions, having previously scored seven in his last 63 for the LaLiga champions.

Luis Suarez appeared after the hour mark for the hosts, but Atletico are still trying to sign a forward, with a reported move for Dusan Vlahovic most recently falling through.

Asked for an update on the forward situation, Simeone responded: “When we prepare a squad we do it thinking of having two players per place.

“If in the end it cannot arrive, we will look for a solution as we have always done.”

On the upturn of Correa’s form, Simeone added: “First he is playing where he feels most comfortable.

“In the centre of the attack he is fast, he is dynamic, he turns better than anyone. And now he is having more forcefulness, that gives him peace of mind and confidence. That allows him to have more confidence.”

100 – @atletienglish record in their first 100 games in all competitions at Wanda Metropolitano:

71% of wins
62% of clean sheets
32% of win by a margin of one goal.

Supported#AtletiElche #AtleticoMadrid pic.twitter.com/8Dpspt6c9L

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) August 22, 2021