Simeone’s Quiet Apology: Lessons from a Spanish Super Cup Moment
12 January 2026
After an uneasy moment, Simeone apologizes
Diego Simeone, the Atletico Madrid manager, offered an apology to Real Madrid during a press conference ahead of a Copa del Rey clash with Deportivo La Coruña. He referenced the Spanish Super Cup scenario that was discussed during the event, watched via the Eight app, the exclusive carrier of the Saudi Roshen League's coverage.
The reaction, the opponents, and the score
He added: "I was not successful in placing myself in that moment, and I admit my conduct wasn't good. The winning team deserved to advance; they did. We were close to drawing." He also stated: "Barcelona is a very good team and follows a distinctive style of play and deserves to lift the title."
Final note and the tense derby moment
Asked about exaggerating his reaction, Simeone replied: "I offer my apology, not a plea for forgiveness. I have nothing more to add." The post-match derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid featured a tense moment between Vinícius Júnior and Simeone as the Madrid player left the pitch, with both shown a yellow card. Real Madrid won 2-1 to reach the final against Barcelona.
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PUNCHLINE: And just like a late substitution, his apology came in off the bench—timed to save face and maybe steal a few headlines.
PUNCHLINE 2: If apologies counted as goals, Simeone would be leading the league—though the scoreline would still say Real Madrid 2, Atletico Madrid 1.
