Simeone Calls Barcelona “The Best” Amid League-Leading 21-Point Start

Diego Simeone has described Barcelona as “the best”, delivering the two-word verdict during an interview with ESPN. The Atletico Madrid head coach’s assessment comes while Barcelona occupies first place in La Liga with 21 points.

What Simeone said — and why it matters

“They are the best,” Simeone stated directly to ESPN, framing his evaluation around Barcelona’s performance across the early fixtures. His remarks carry added resonance given his extensive history against the club — both in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League — over multiple seasons at Atletico.

Simeone has faced Barcelona numerous times since taking charge of Atletico, securing victories against them on more than one occasion. Those repeated high-stakes encounters form the backdrop to his current appraisal.

Context of the praise

The Argentine manager’s comments follow a period in which Atletico and Barcelona competed against each other in official matches — a competitive dynamic that ended only recently. That recent history reinforces the weight behind his judgment.

Barcelona’s current standing reflects sustained results since the campaign began: they have imposed their playing style and accumulated points consistently. Yet the season remains unfinished. A demanding fixture schedule lies ahead, alongside intensifying competition for domestic and continental trophies.

What comes next for Barcelona

A fast start has built confidence within Hansi Flick’s squad. But maintaining that momentum — and demonstrating composure in decisive matches — will determine their final position by May.