MADRID (Reuters) – LaLiga champions Atletico Madrid have had an inconsistent season to date however are lastly displaying some preventing spirit as they put together to host Manchester United in their Champions League final 16 first leg on Wednesday, coach Diego Simeone has stated.
Atletico have struggled domestically as they sit fifth within the LaLiga standings however put in an emphatic efficiency after they beat Osasuna 3-0 on the weekend, giving them the right preparation for Wednesday’s match in opposition to United.
“I cling to the expansion that I see occurring each day,” Simeone instructed information convention on Tuesday.
“I see their (gamers) seek for our team spirit, like we noticed the opposite day within the 3-0 win at Osasuna. Hopefully in opposition to Manchester United now we have that spirit as a result of that is how we compete very properly.”
Atletico had been eradicated at this stage of the competitors final season by eventual champions Chelsea and Simeone is predicting one other difficult encounter in opposition to United, now managed by German Ralf Rangnick.
“We need to find our stability,” Simeone stated. “We will face the most effective groups on the planet that, because the arrival of their new coach, are displaying solidity and dedication, like how Manchester have at all times been. They have developed loads since his arrival.”
The Argentine coach obtained a blow earlier on within the day with the information that he shall be with out midfielder and captain Koke who was dominated out with a thigh muscle damage.
“(Thomas) Lemar can be not 100% after getting back from COVID-19, (Yannick) Carrasco is suspended, now Koke can be out,” Simeone stated.
“It’s an enormous blow however now we have a gaggle of gamers who’re hungry to play and present what they’re price.”
(Reporting by Fernando Kallas; Editing by Christian Radnedge)
