Atlético Madrid's manager, Diego Simeone, expressed on Saturday that it was nonsensical to proceed with this weekend's fixtures in light of the catastrophic floods that ravaged parts of Spain. These floods, described as the deadliest in Spain's modern history and the second-deadliest in Europe this century, have claimed at least 211 lives, with dozens still missing, according to Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The torrential rains that inundated the Valencia region led to the postponement of several matches, including those between Valencia and Real Madrid, as well as Villarreal versus Rayo Vallecano.
"It doesn't make any sense," Simeone remarked to the press ahead of his team's home game against Las Palmas on Sunday. "The situation is incredibly difficult; it's deeply moving to witness the efforts of those who took to the streets to assist, using shovels and tools to contribute. This reflects well on our country and its people, and we aim to help in any way we can. Many are suffering immensely, which is profoundly sad, yet we are told to carry on, so here we are, continuing."
Barcelona's coach, Hansi Flick, also expressed reservations about playing, with his team scheduled to host Espanyol in a derby on Sunday. "If it were up to me, I might suspend sports activities due to the unimaginable tragedy for Valencia and Spain as a whole," the German coach stated. "We've discussed the situation with Ferran Torres, who hails from the area, and it's not straightforward to decide whether the game should proceed or not.
"For me, it's a tragedy. Something similar occurred in Germany three years ago; it's utterly devastating. We will do all we can to assist. The final decision, however, rests with LaLiga." Prior to their match at Osasuna on Saturday, Real Valladolid players showed solidarity with the flood victims by posing with shirts supporting them.
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