Javier Zanetti, the vice president of Italian club Inter Milan, expressed his great respect for Atletico Madrid after the two teams were drawn to face each other directly in the group stage of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League.

In his statements, he said: "We will face Atletico Madrid on their home ground, and we are well aware that they are a great team. They have a remarkable coach in Diego Simeone, whom I know well; we were colleagues and friends, and I know his coaching staff, as well as several players on the team. It will be a very difficult match, especially since it is being held at their stadium."

Despite Atletico's weak start this season, Zanetti expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back quickly, stating: "Yes, the start was not ideal, but we are still at the beginning of the season. I believe that Atletico Madrid has a strong team and will find the right path soon enough."

Regarding his assessment of the draw results for his team Inter Milan, Zanetti clarified: "The draw was quite balanced for us; all matches will be difficult, especially in a strong competition like the Champions League. We need to focus on each match individually and treat it seriously."