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Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone addressed reporters on Monday. He focused on the superior speed in English football ahead of Tuesday’s game.
Moreover, he admitted the reason remained unclear to him. “English teams have a faster pace. I don’t know why, I can’t quite put my finger on it,” Coach Diego Simeone said.
Simeone Compares Leagues
Furthermore, Coach Diego Simeone offered possible explanations. He noted that referees allowed games to flow more freely in some views. Additionally, he pointed to tactics and pre-game preparation as factors. “Some say the referees let the game flow more, I don’t know if it’s the tactics or the pre-game preparation, but it’s true that the speed is faster,” he added. “When you watch it on television, you can see that the speed is faster than in Spain, Italy, Germany. It’s the fastest league,” Coach Diego Simeone continued.
Technical Quality Remains Important
However, Coach Diego Simeone stressed that pace alone would not settle the tie. He insisted technical ability would play a key role.“
Technical quality will also play its part in deciding the game,” he stated. Moreover, he warned that Tottenham could not succeed through intensity alone.
Atletico Reject Favourite Status
Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur struggled in the Premier League. The London club sat in a relegation battle yet finished fourth in the Champions League league phase.As a result, many observers called Atletico Madrid favourites. Coach Diego Simeone rejected that view outright.“
When you step onto the pitch, you don’t remember where you are in the standings or what moment you’re in,” he said. “The players want to win, to play well. I don’t know anyone who thinks about their league position when they’re about to have a shot.”
Gallagher Returns To Metropolitano
In addition, the tie brought back a familiar face. Former Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher now played for Tottenham Hotspur.
Furthermore, Coach Diego Simeone spoke warmly about the player. “He’s a young man who worked with us with great humility and who arrives from midfield is very dangerous,” he said. “He behaved very well here, and we have very fond memories of his time at Atletico.”
Match Set for Metropolitano
The first leg took place at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid. Six English teams reached the last 16 compared to three Spanish sides.
Therefore, Coach Diego Simeone prepared his squad for a high-tempo contest. He expected a tough battle from the visitors despite their domestic woes.
The comments came as Atletico Madrid aimed to advance in Europe. The tie marked a significant test for both clubs.
