Atletico Madrid star Rodrigo De Paul slammed by club icon for 'great season' remark – 'I'm surprised'

Earlier this week, while speaking at an awards ceremony, Rodrigo De Paul said that Atletico Madrid had a “very good season”. The Argentine midfielder believes that he and his team-mates have done well in the cup competitions, and that a fourth place in La Liga will solidify their position.

Many were disappointed by De Paul's remarks, considering that Atleti's place in next season's Champions League is far from assured. After losing to Alaves on Sunday, Diego Simeone's side are now just three points behind Athletic Club, who face Civitas Metropolitano this weekend.

One of those who questioned De Paul was Atleti icon Kiko Narvaez, who responded to the comments on El Larguero (via Relief).

“I am surprised by De Paul who says that if they are fourth, it will be a very good season. For me, the results of a league are the most fair thing in football, because after 38 games everyone has things to complain about and favors that they don't remember.

Many Atletico Madrid supporters believe they should finish third at least every season, as they are considered among the big three alongside Barcelona and Real Madrid. Taking this into account, and the fact that they went down in the cups, many are right to ask if it has been a successful campaign.