Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone insists their title hopes remain alive.

Barcelona may have a 10-point lead over second-placed Atletico, but they do face Espanyol in the Catalan derby this weekend and will have to face Los Rojiblancos before the end of the campaign.

"Until the possibility of winning the league is over, I am excessively optimistic because in one week, a lot can happen in football," Simeone said.

"Atletico are Atletico. This club has shown so much growth in recent years and it is thanks to those [leaders] who have given us a lot.

"They will continue to demonstrate their leadership and pride and when the season is over, we will do what is best for the club and the players."