Diego Simeone Defends Giuliano’s Atletico Madrid Role Before Real Sociedad Trip
Diego Simeone has defended Giuliano Simeone’s place in Atletico Madrid’s early-season plans, insisting his son should be judged solely on what he produces on the pitch as the club prepares for Sunday’s trip to Real Sociedad.
Why it matters for Atletico Madrid
Giuliano has appeared in all of Atletico’s matches so far this season, including three La Liga starts and the opening Champions League fixture against Liverpool. His only outing from the bench came in the 2-0 league win over Malaga on 19 August.
| Early-season record | Figure |
|---|---|
| Giuliano Simeone appearances | Every Atletico match |
| La Liga starts | 3 |
| Goals conceded in competitive games | 8 in 5 |
| Latest league defeat | Athletic 3-0 Atletico |
| Malaga result | Atletico 2-0 Malaga |
The winger’s continued involvement has prompted criticism online, with some supporters questioning whether family ties have influenced his selection. Simeone declined to engage with that argument before the match in San Sebastian, saying he had no comment to make and that Giuliano’s work and performances provided their own answer.
Atletico’s wider problems are more pressing. They travel to the Reale Arena after successive defeats, first losing 3-0 to Athletic and then being beaten at Liverpool in the Champions League. The side have conceded eight times across their opening five competitive fixtures, leaving defensive reliability a major concern.
An away win over Sociedad would help halt an uncomfortable early slide and prevent the distance to the top of the table growing further. Atletico will also need to manage the absence of Pablo Barrios, who has a muscle injury, while Alexander Sorloth remains unavailable in attack.
Fitness questions remain
Barrios’ recovery timetable and Sorloth’s return date have not been confirmed, leaving Simeone with reduced midfield and forward options for the visit to San Sebastian.
