Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has called for patience after watching his side slip to a frustrating 1-1 draw with Elche in matchday two of the 2025/2026 La Liga season.
Simeone looked on from the sidelines as his charges dominated their newly promoted opponents, fashioning numerous scoring chances and recording 13 attempts on goal.
However, it proved to be a frustrating afternoon at the Stadio Wanda Meteopolitano with Los Colchoneros having to settle for a share of the spoils.
The draw follows a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Espanyol on matchday one, where despite taking the lead, Atleti failed to keep their nerves and allowed their opponents back into the game.
Simeone, who has brought in ten new signings this summer, urged patience with his team while speaking after the game. The Argentine tactician acknowledged their slow start but insists there are clear signs of improvement.
“I have to hold onto the fact that the team is improving. We have young players and we have to let them grow,” Simeone said.
“I think that from the Espanyol game to today, there was an improvement. It is clear that the result, which is what matters to all of us, is not there.
“We have to be patient and keep looking for the right path. When we become more clinical, we will get more points. It’s true that we drew and that we’re not happy, we had to win, but we’re on the path we have to go through.”
Atletico Madrid are already five points off the pace this season with defending champions Barcelona claiming all six points from their first two games.
Simeone and his men will be looking to make up some ground when they pay a visit to Deportivo Alaves on matchday three.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
