Sevilla coach Francisco Javier Garcia Pimienta has acknowledged Atletico Madrid’s status as one of the top contenders for the La Liga title this season, alongside Real Madrid and Barcelona. Speaking after his team’s narrow 4-3 defeat against Atletico Madrid on Matchday 16, Garcia Pimienta praised the “Colchoneros” for their remarkable comeback from a 1-3 deficit, highlighting their form and squad depth as key advantages in the title race.
“It was a pity because, at many moments, we were superior against a great opponent that has incredible talent,” Garcia Pimienta noted in his post-match press conference. “They had to give their best to beat us. We started poorly but managed to turn the score around. Atletico’s changes came in with a lot of energy. They have an impressive squad, capable of forming two teams. It was their merit,” he said.
The Sevilla coach commended his team’s effort, emphasizing their strong attitude and ability to create dangerous opportunities throughout the match. “We were close to making it 1-3 in the first half. But the reality is we faced Atletico, the most in-form team in La Liga. Their squad is well-balanced, and the stadium atmosphere is a significant advantage,” he added.
When asked if Atletico could challenge for the La Liga title, Garcia Pimienta was unequivocal: “Absolutely, yes. Atletico, Real Madrid, and Barcelona are the title contenders. This defeat should strengthen us, as we managed to put the most in-form team in the competition in danger. This is the way forward—with good play, personality, and resilience, we can compete against any opponent.”
Atletico’s win further solidifies their standing as one of the most formidable teams in La Liga this season, adding momentum to a competitive race for the title against their traditional rivals, Real Madrid and Barcelona.
