Simeone still proud of Atletico

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone was happy with his team despite missing out on Champions League qualification on Sunday.

An 88th-minute goal from Radamel Falcao gave Atletico a 1-0 win at Villarreal in La Liga, but Malaga’s victory meant they finished fifth on the table.

Simeone said he was pleased his players stayed focused, and was sad to see Villarreal relegated after the loss.

“This is an uncomfortable situation. This is not only the game that left us out of Champions League, but also the one that relegates Villarreal,” Simeone said.

“We knew that Sporting (Gijon) was losing just by 1-0 to Malaga and we really wanted to make it to the Champions League.

“There’s nothing I can reproach my players. Sporting couldn’t draw Malaga, which is the result we needed to qualify for Champions League, but we did our job.”

With Atletico to play in the Europa League again next season, there have been doubts cast over the futures of stars Falcao and Diego.

Simeone said it was too early to tell whether the pair would remain at the club, but added he expected his side to be competitive even if they chose to leave.

“We’ve just finished the season and I cannot guarantee anything. We needed to qualify for Champions League, we tried everything and since my arrival we’ve got many points,” he said.

“We have been close to qualifying for Champions League. I hope that my team remains competitive, as Atletico always is.”

Villarreal competed in the Champions League this season, and coach Miguel Angel Lotina took responsibility for their surprise relegation.

“Last Sunday we conceded a set-piece goal in injury time and today we did it in a corner kick with four minutes to go,” he said.

“Atletico played well in the second half but we’ve had our chances in the first period too.

“Unfortunately we haven’t been able to score. I think that football has been unfair with us, but that’s the way it is and me myself will be the first one to assume my responsibilities.”