Atletico Madrid legend Jose Eulogio Garate has lamented the club’s inability to compete again with Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Diego Simeone took the side to the title in 2013-14 but this season third was the summit of Atletico’s achievements, with Garate complaining about anyone who expected the team to challenge again.
“Third place is an extraordinary accomplishment. I don’t think Atletico’s game has been at a high level. They did well in defence, but in a lot of games they looked a little tired,” he said, AS reports.
“Of course, the results are there. It’s clear the team has had a very good season against two rivals like Madrid and Barca, the best in the world.
“I understand everyone likes to win but you have to be reasonable, have common sense. If you compare a budget of €120m against €500m…it’s virtually impossible to compete with Madrid and Barca.
“Third place is because Atleti has to compete with other teams, like Valencia and Sevilla, who are very good but can’t compete with Madrid and Barca.”
