Koke: "We must continue working to improve on last season"
Resurrection Koke spoke at a press conference in Los Angeles de San Rafael after morning training. Recently crwned European Champion U-21 Champion, the Atletico midfielder expressed his confidence in a team that, as always, will compete to the fullest.
Koke this summer has become one of the most important players on the national scene. His great performance in the previous season with Atletico Madrid, Champion Cup and European Super Cup, and the decisive role he played in the Under-21 will no longer be seen as a promise but more of a reality.
Happy to be back with his teammates, Koke had words of appreciation for the great reception they have given players and coaches. "I have received a very good reception as always. I have been congratulated for the Euro championship and that makes me very happy," he said.
The youth hailed the signing of David Villa for Atletico. He said it will bring a lot of goals and will be a great striker for Atletico Madrid. "I personally do not know him but we have all seen him play. He is the national top scorer so I’m sure he will bring a lot of quality to our game and a lot of goals which is what we wanted, a forward with great goal scoring. We are delighted by the arrival of a great player."
For the player, Atletico have a great squad to compete at the highest level next season. The base and the variety with new signings are key to continuing to grow as a team, which is essential for the midfielder. "The base of the squad is made and is very good. We have already signed Leo and Villa and we must continue to improve." he said.
Asked about the position he will occupy next season, after playing at a high level as a midfielder in the U-21, Koke made it clear that he will do what Simeone asks of him. "I think the coach decides where to put the players. May be on the wing or in the middle further forward or further back. I will play where I’m asked to and will adapt to do my best."
The Atletico youth believes he should continue working hard to improve on last season. "Little by little you have to keep improving and we must do more. For me to score more goals or link up more with the team. I think you always have to grow."