Diego Simeone talks Man City, Man Utd ahead of Champions League clash
Diego Simeone spoke to the press on Monday ahead of Tuesday's Champions League quarter-final clash between Manchester City and Atlético Madrid.
Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone gave his thoughts to the media on Monday, as his side prepare for their Champions League first leg quarter-final tie against Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.
There is a lot of talk in the build-up about styles of play
What I like most about teams that play well, like City, is the effort they put in to win the ball back, to play attacking football. It's nice to watch them play, they are constantly evolving, as are their players. What I like most is seeing Sterling, De Bruyne... pressing, being active, not giving up on any ball. In addition to the talent, they add that work rate that all coaches like.
With the second leg at home, can you take fewer risks?
We're used to playing in the knockout stages. They're really long games. Everyone will say what they think is best approach for each moment. We're facing a rival with a lot of tools to play positionally, on the counter, with long ball, who get people into the box.
What do you see happening at the Etihad?
We're looking to get into positions where we think we can do some damage. With our characteristics and the way we've been playing for years, we want to keep competing like we have for years.
Man City and Bayern considered Champions League favourites
Man City and Bayern are the favourites, do they have more pressure?
We are all under pressure, although I don't know if pressure is the word. We have a responsibility. City have extraordinary players, better than us for sure. City and Bayern yes, but last year Chelsea came out on top, they didn't expect it and they grew and became stronger.
Are Guardiola and Simeone the stars of this tie?
No. Both teams have very good squads with different characteristics everywhere, but with personality. It will be a match for the players, although we will try to help from the bench. I enjoy watching Manchester City play.
Can the match at Old Trafford be of any use to you tomorrow?
Manchester United have different qualities, faster, more direct. City are more about positional play and we will have to improve on all the good things we did three weeks ago.
What is it like to be in the quarter-finals of the Champions League?
Everyone at this stage aspires to win. There are very good opponents in all the knockout ties. Hopefully whoever deserves to win will win.