Atletico Madrid boss fires warning towards Real Madrid: ‘We can really hurt our opponent’ | OneFootball

Diego Simeone is no stranger to high-pressure nights, but this one carries extra weight. 

As Atletico Madrid prepare to face Real Madrid once again, the Argentine coach is set to take charge of his 50th Madrid derby.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Simeone addressed several key talking points, starting with the absence of two of the game’s best goalkeepers – Thibaut Courtois and Jan Oblak.

With both sides missing their first-choice shot-stoppers, Simeone explained who he believes is most impacted, saying, 

“The fans stand to lose the most because two very good goalkeepers are missing.”

First test against Arbeloa

As always with this fixture, emotion will play a huge role and Simeone emphasised the psychological side of the game, highlighting the intensity both teams will bring. 

He explained, “It’s a game that’s played with a lot of emotion and enthusiasm. We’ll try to do our best and get to a point in the match where we can really hurt our opponent.”

This derby will also mark Simeone’s first encounter with Alvaro Arbeloa as Real Madrid manager.

Diego Simeone is looking forward to the Madrid derby. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Despite the change on the Madrid bench, Simeone was full of praise for the job Arbeloa has done so far. 

He pointed to the connection between the coach and his players as a key strength, stating, “He’s doing a great job; the results speak for themselves. 

“There’s a real connection with the players, beyond the technical skills we coaches may have.

“There’s an extra quality that comes through, like this, in terms of what the coach wants, asks for, and needs.”

Madrid’s identity remains intact

When asked about changes within the Real Madrid setup, Simeone suggested that, from his perspective, very little has shifted.

Referring to recent performances, he said, “You see it much more than we do. We’re seeing it now, in these last few games. 

“They always follow the same pattern; the players are the same; they’re working well as a team, especially against Benfica and City; they aim to win it all,” he concluded.

Source: AS