Simeone regrets clashing with Liverpool fans but says he was insulted

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone said he regrets clashing with Liverpool fans during a heated Champions League match at Anfield, but claimed he reacted after being insulted throughout the match.

The incident occurred after Virgil van Dijk scored the winning goal in the 92nd minute, giving Liverpool a 3-2 victory on Wednesday night.

Simeone appeared to be angered by a small group of home fans, which led to an argument with the fourth official while stewards stood between him and the crowd. He had to be restrained, continued his protest, and was ultimately sent off before leaving the tunnel.

After the match, 55-year-old Simeone said: “

First of all, I regret what I did. Obviously, we[managers] shouldn’t have reacted like that, it wasn’t nice.”

However, he also explained that he was unhappy with the behavior of some fans.

“There was abuse throughout the game. The coach, like the players, holds a public office. We are against racism and other inappropriate behaviour in football, so I think we should also be against insults directed at the coach.”

He continued: “It’s not easy to stay calm when you’re being shouted at during a 90-minute match. After the third goal, I turned around and the abuse continued. I’m human too.”

When asked what was said specifically, Simeone replied: “I don’t remember what was said. I don’t want to go into details. It was too much. But we

have to admit that this kind of thing happens from time to time. Even if my reaction was wrong, I hope Liverpool can improve and find those responsible.

The game was exciting from the start. Liverpool scored twice in the first six minutes through Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah, and then Atletico Madrid equalized with two goals from Marcos Llorente. With a few minutes left, Van Dijk headed in the winner, securing the three points for Liverpool. [managers]