Jiménez May Miss Atletico’s Match Against Sevilla

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone is still uncertain about the availability of defender José María Jiménez for Sunday’s La Liga match against Sevilla.

Jiménez, who has played 13 league matches for Atletico this season, suffered an ankle injury during Friday’s training, and Simeone said he will make a decision about the Uruguayan defender’s participation later.

He told reporters: “We’ll see. On Sunday, when he wakes up, he’ll say he’s ready to play because we know him well, and then we’ll assess his condition.”

Atletico has won eight consecutive matches in all competitions, scoring 14 goals in their last three games.

Simeone’s team is currently third in La Liga with 32 points, one point behind second-placed Real Madrid and five points behind leaders Barcelona, who have played one match more.

Simeone discussed the improvement in his team’s form in recent weeks: “There are always different moments in the season, and now we are trying to maintain what we have.”

The Argentine coach also praised midfielder Rodrigo de Paul, saying: “He does almost everything, and he showed that in recent matches. He fights everywhere, whether it’s in the Champions League or the Copa del Rey, as he should and as Atletico fans want him to. He knows the expectations from the fans, and we hope he can maintain this level because he has what it takes. We will demand the most from him because he’s in a position that requires a lot of work.”

Sunday’s match will also mark the return of Saúl Ñíguez to his former team’s stadium for the first time since joining Sevilla on loan in July.

Simeone said the midfielder, who played over 400 matches for Atletico, will receive a warm welcome.

He added: “I would like to thank him for his work since he was a child. He gave a lot to the club and shows his love for the institution whenever he can. People love him, and we are grateful for everything he did for us. I imagine he will continue to give his best and work for his team in any midfield position the coach asks him to. He is returning after months of injury and could be a regular player. He will be received by the fans as he deserves, with affection and warm applause.”