Simeone: We Are Ready for the Derby, Respecting Real Madrid but Aware of Our Strength

Diego Simeone, the Argentine manager of Atlético Madrid, expressed his great enthusiasm ahead of the derby against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, confirming that his team is fully prepared for the match despite the difficulty of the opponent.

Simeone said in the press conference before the match: "We have great respect for a very strong opponent, previous matches do not affect encounters like this at all. It’s a big match for Madrid and Spain, and for us as players, we must enjoy it. It’s an extremely important game, and we are ready for whatever happens."

He added: "Such matches are decided by small details; we know that well, whether it’s us or Real Madrid. The details will be crucial in determining qualification."

When asked about the identity of the favorite to win the match, he stated: "I don’t think about that, but I respect that perspective. We are facing a strong team that we respect, but we are well aware of our own strength and we will strive to enhance it to achieve the best possible result."

Regarding the noticeable improvement in scoring from counterattacks, especially with striker Julian Alvarez, he said: "Is scoring from counterattacks considered an improvement? I like to hear that. I am happy with Julian, and we are working to further develop his capabilities."

On his team’s goal for the first leg, he clarified: "The two matters are interconnected; there’s no difference between coming out with a positive result or achieving a big victory. The most important thing is to present a strong match and come out with the best possible result."

When asked if Atlético Madrid has reached the same level as Real Madrid and Barcelona, he replied: "I have always placed them in the position they deserve due to their great history, but we are in continuous development, and that is a wonderful thing."

Regarding the priority between the Champions League and La Liga, Simeone confirmed: "For me, the next match is always the most important. I don’t think about upcoming matches; my entire focus is on tomorrow’s match."

Finally, he spoke about the strength of Real Madrid in the continental competition, saying: "We know that Real Madrid has an exceptional history in the Champions League, but we are confident in our ability to compete, and we will try to seize the opportunity available to us tomorrow."