Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone spoke about his attitude toward Real Madrid manager José Mourinho ahead of Sunday’s Madrid derby. This will mark the first meeting between the two coaches since 2014.
After six rounds of La Liga, Real Madrid sit two points ahead of Atletico. Both Madrid sides currently trail the league leaders, Barcelona.
“I don’t dwell on what happened many years ago. I have great respect for Mourinho; I have been a fan of his for a long time, following him and watching his teams,” Simeone said during the press conference.
“He knows how I feel about him. I hope tomorrow we can compete as fiercely as in previous matches against his teams,” the Argentine coach added.
Atletico enter the derby facing attacking challenges. Julian Alvarez has yet to secure consistent playing time following his summer attempt to move to Barcelona, while Alexander Sørloth is sidelined with an injury. However, new signing Jonathan David has scored twice in the last two matches.
Alvarez made his first start of the season on September 9 against Liverpool, providing an assist, but then missed the games against Real Sociedad and Osasuna.
“He will be with us. Later we will decide whether he starts or comes on in the second half,” Simeone confirmed.
The Atletico coach also highlighted Real Madrid‘s strengths. According to Simeone, Mourinho’s side is especially dangerous after losing possession and is superior in transitional play.
“They are better than us in transitions. After losing the ball, they look for Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius, exploiting their strengths. We must read the game well and avoid turnovers to prevent them from capitalizing on these transitions,” the manager explained.
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