Rodrigo De Paul, Koke, and Jan Oblak joined Diego Simeone on the field at the Memorial Coliseum, where Atlético Madrid held their Media Day ahead of their season opener against Paris Saint-Germain.
Atleti are in Los Angeles, gearing up for their first match on Sunday against the reigning Champions League victors, PSG.
The Memorial Coliseum, a landmark venue in Los Angeles that has hosted two Olympic Games and is set to welcome a third in 2028, provided the backdrop for an engaging media session with three of Simeone’s pivotal players: De Paul, Koke, and Oblak.
Players Feeling Positive
“The atmosphere in the dressing room is excellent. We will tackle the competition match by match, but of course, the aim is to be here from the start and stay until the end. That indicates we’ve done things right as a team,” he stated.
“Atletico Madrid has always been a formidable side. We’ve demonstrated our ability to compete against any team, in every competition – be it league or a prestigious tournament like this. We aim to be front and centre.”
“PSG is a superb team with an excellent coach. However, every team has its weak points, as do we. We’ll aim to exploit those to secure three crucial points right from the start.”
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Reflecting on their previous encounter in November 2024, when Atleti triumphed 2-1 against PSG in France, De Paul feels optimistic ahead of Sunday’s showdown.
“We certainly have many positive takeaways from that match, though I’ll refrain from elaborating here. We’ll take our lessons with us. That said, I believe Paris have evolved significantly since then,” he remarked.
“However, we must also keep Atletico Madrid in mind. If we play well, we can go far in this tournament, and that is the most crucial aspect.”
A ‘Renewed’ Koke
This moment is particularly significant for Koke, who, along with Antoine Griezmann, has extended his contract with the club, providing extra motivation to succeed in the newly structured competition.
“It is genuinely thrilling to compete in the Club World Cup, representing Atletico Madrid and Spanish football. We hope to achieve the highest outcome possible, which means winning the tournament,” Koke expressed.
“It’s true that in our encounters with the top teams, we have emerged victorious in the key matches. We’ve beaten Real Madrid, La Liga champions Barcelona, and also PSG… so yes, we are a noteworthy team and can achieve great things. We sincerely hope to conclude this tournament on a high note.”
However, the competition is set to be incredibly tough, with many of the world’s elite teams from various nations participating.
“Indeed, there are clubs from across the globe, all of which earned their place through their performances. This is entirely different from the Champions League, which only features European clubs.”
When asked about PSG’s improvements since their defeat to Atleti in the Champions League group stage, Koke highlighted several factors.
“They indeed possess incredible confidence now after winning the Champions League. Their winter signings were excellent, and their style of play remains quite similar,” he stated.
“Their coach has a very clear philosophy; they aim to press, retain possession, and maintain an offensive approach. But now, they also boast even greater attacking quality.”
Oblak on Donnarumma
A key asset for Atleti is their goalkeeper, Oblak, who stays composed ahead of the challenge from PSG and the rest of the group stage.
“We must keep our chatter to a minimum. Our focus should be on performing at our best and striving to lift the cup. That remains our desire and goal, as it always has,” the Slovenian keeper assured.
“Facing PSG? Yes, we’re still preparing for tomorrow’s match. We will encounter the Champions League winners and Ligue 1 champions, a team that has achieved so much. We’re familiar with them, having played against them this year, and we know how tough it will be.
“We can’t predict if tomorrow will be easier or even harder. However, we are getting ready to give them a tough game. We recognise the challenge ahead, but we will always put forth our best effort to win.”
Looking towards the remainder of the tournament, Oblak added: “We have produced the necessary results over the last four years to qualify. But we haven’t come merely to take part; we are here to compete and do everything we can to progress far. Our aim is to win the title.”
Opposing him will be Gianluigi Donnarumma, whom Oblak regards as one of the finest goalkeepers around.
“He is an exceptional keeper. This year, he has showcased his strength in numerous matches. He’s tall, has quick reflexes, and is still quite young,” Oblak noted.
“He certainly has a bright future ahead, yet he is already an impressive presence. I anticipate he will provide a stern challenge for our forwards. However, I hope we will be the ones to put him to the test and emerge victorious.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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