Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone is targeting a third-place finish this season.

Barcelona sealed the league crown last weekend with 1-0 win at Atletico, with Lionel Messi scoring the goal.

"In order to return to be champions we have to work to be second and third," Simeone told Onda Cero. "Then, when Real Madrid and Barca get distracted, we can take advantage.

"That happened last year and we were able to achieve it. Valencia and Sevilla are also aware of this now and this strengthens La Liga."

Atletico have won 23 and lost six of their 37 league games this season to sit third in the standings, 16 points adrift of Barca.

"To finish third in the standings would be important," Simeone said. "This year has been more difficult because the aims we set ourselves were high.

"It's not enough if you are not champions. But our fans are intelligent.

"Beyond the passion they feel, they understand the reality. Real Madrid and Barcelona have very high budgets."