Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone was overheard by the TV microphones namedropping Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. during his side’s meeting with Levante on Saturday.
This came amid protests on the part of the Argentine against a decision against his side.
Making his frustration with referee Jesús Gil Manzano known, Simeone was caught by Movistar shouting:
“Hey, what are you calling there!? Calm down, calm down! A yellow for that?? You don’t book Vinícius [for the same].”
Despite his anger with the standard of officiating, Simeone’s Atlético ultimately did enough to emerge with all three points yesterday evening.
This came courtesy of a 3-1 downing of newly-promoted Levante.
After an early own goal was cancelled out by the visitors’ Manu Sánchez, Antoine Griezmann went on to prove himself Rojiblancos hero.
Introduced to proceedings off the bench during the 2nd-half, the Frenchman notched a fine brace, to guide Atléti, at least temporarily, level on points with 3rd-placed Barcelona in the La Liga table.
Conor Laird – GSFN
