Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone Downplays Challenge from ‘Enhanced’ Valencia

Valencia have significantly improved in recent months and pose a formidable challenge despite their current low position in LaLiga, asserted Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone (54) ahead of Saturday’s clash at the Mestalla Stadium.

Earlier this season, Atletico dispatched Valencia, who currently sit in 18th place with merely five wins, with a convincing 3-0 victory at the Metropolitano in September.

Atletico, on the other hand, occupy third place with 50 points from 24 matches, trailing leaders Barcelona and second-placed Real Madrid by just one point.

“Anyone who has watched Valencia recently will notice they play very differently than a few months ago. They exhibit greater intensity, improved tactical discipline, and they have an extra push at home thanks to their supporters,” Simeone remarked to journalists on Friday.

After a missed opportunity to ascend to the top of LaLiga, being held to a 1-1 draw at home by Celta Vigo on Saturday, Atletico are eager to return to winning form against a Valencia side that is currently on a three-match unbeaten run in the league.

“We have been fortunate to compete in many significant matches and we will approach this one with the same mindset. We will be facing a Valencia team that has made notable strides under their new coach (Carlos Corberan), displaying a lot of organisation and growth,” Simeone noted.

The Argentine manager also expressed his support for French forward Antoine Griezmann.

The 33-year-old has been in fine form, netting 15 goals and providing six assists in 35 appearances across all competitions this season.

“He is an exceptional player, a game-changer who elevates our quality. Naturally, there are matches where he may not perform at his best, just like many others on the team. It’s my responsibility to manage his game time effectively. I have complete faith in him,” Simeone added.