Diego Pablo Simeone has addressed the media today in Majadahonda ahead of tomorrow's clash against Valencia. The news of the day, without a doubt, was the Champions League draw that has paired Atlético de Madrid against Real Madrid in the round of 16. It is not the first time that both clubs will face each other in the top continental club competition, something already common.
There have been four occasions in which Simeone has faced his eternal rival in this tournament, a rivalry that will be written in the history books. In March, a new chapter will be experienced in which the colchonero team hopes to put an end to everything that has happened and reach the quarterfinals. The rest of the schedule has also been drawn, with the rojiblancos' path to the final being an obstacle course against the best in the entire competition.
Simeone Warns Real Madrid
As expected, the pairing between Atlético de Madrid and the white team was going to be one of the main topics today. Taking advantage of the pre-match press conference against Valencia, Simeone was asked about this tie and his perception of the upcoming schedule. The Argentine coach sent a strong message that has excited the fans, who are already starting to request tickets for the first leg.
"We are ready," was what Cholo stated, while explaining that it will be a real great match and in which his players will give 100% to achieve the pass. If they manage to advance, the next opponent for the rojiblancos would be PSV or Arsenal, also playing the second leg at the Metropolitano. However, the focus is solely on tomorrow's visit to Mestalla with the aim of staying at the top.
Marcos Llorente Will Be a Starter
Regarding what will happen in Valencia, one of the keys given by Simeone is that the Spaniard will start in the midfield with Rodrigo de Paul. Pablo Barrios is suspended and Koke is injured, so neither of them will be able to be on the squad list for this match. Cholo recalled Marcos Llorente's early years in the elite where he occupied that position as a pivot, something he will repeat tomorrow.
Also aiming for a starting position is Antoine Griezmann, in whom Simeone has shown confidence during a very challenging time for the French forward. He is the second top scorer for Atlético de Madrid and remains one of the team's main protagonists, something unquestionable. Another one aiming for a starting position is Samuel Lino, who seems to have surpassed Conor Gallagher on the left wing after his good performance in recent matches.