{
  "id": 15727778,
  "title": "Diego Simeone focused on power of squad depth ahead of Stuttgart tie",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/20/diego-simeone-focused-on-power-of-squad-depth-ahead-of-stuttgart-tie",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-20T09:48:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/diego-simeone-focused-power-squad-094822513.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Atlético Madrid's Argentine head coach Diego Simeone addressed the press in Stuttgart ahead of their UEFA Champions League match against VfB Stuttgart on October 19, 2026. When asked about the squad's depth, Simeone emphasized that, \"right now we're a work in progress; I'm still saying the same thing I've been saying all along, that the team is growing; the new guys are settling in bit by bit, and that's very good for the team as a whole.\" He explained that the process of adapting players involves giving them playing time believed to be beneficial and replacing them when their performance dips, as the team is competing exceptionally well. Simeone also discussed the importance of winning away in the Champions League, stating that the focus should be on their performance tomorrow rather than praising the team's achievements. He highlighted VfB Stuttgart's physical strength and pressing tactics, and advised the team to take the game to where they believe they can cause problems. Regarding Cuti Romero's absence, Simeone reiterated that the team's success comes from working as one unit, not focusing on individual players. He also praised Jan Oblak's improved goalkeeping form over the years and emphasized the importance of reacting positively to mistakes. Lastly, Simeone expressed his excitement about returning to the historic stadium and reiterated his focus on the opposition, acknowledging the challenges they pose.",
  "summary": "He also praised Jan Oblak’s recent form",
  "key_points": [
    "Diego Simeone emphasizes squad depth, noting players are \"growing\" and settling in.",
    "Coach highlights importance of away wins in Champions League, focusing on performance.",
    "Simeone praises team unity, downplays individual player focus ahead of Stuttgart match."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Prioritizing player rotation and integration signals a shift toward a collective squad identity that relies on continuous development rather than the individual performances of any single star player.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}