Diego Simeone has staunchly defended his decision to field the youngest starting XI of his tenure after Atletico Madrid fell to a narrow La Liga defeat against Sevilla. With a season-defining Champions League quarter-final second leg against Barcelona looming, the Argentine tactician opted for ten changes to his side at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan.
Robert Lewandowski is said to have been left deeply affected following the tragic and sudden death of Poland assistant coach Jacek Magiera. The Barcelona striker, who remained on the bench during Saturday's 4-1 derby win over Espanyol, took to social media to pay a heartfelt tribute to his long-time colleague and friend. The 49-year-old tragically died after falling ill while jogging.
Ferran Torres has sent a defiant message to his detractors after playing a starring role in Barcelona's dominant 4-1 victory over local rivals Espanyol. The forward, often a lightning rod for criticism, netted twice to help the Blaugrana extend their lead at the top of La Liga.
The Catalan derby has long been one of the most feisty fixtures in the Spanish calendar, but the latest instalment has left a bitter taste for those in the blue and white half of the city. Following Barcelona's dominant 4-1 victory, Espanyol midfielder Pol Lozano has hit out at the Blaugrana stars for their conduct away from the cameras despite the convincing scoreline.
Barcelona
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