Diego Simeone is brimming with confidence that his Atletico Madrid squad will showcase their determination in their inaugural Club World Cup campaign, as they prepare to take on PSG in Los Angeles this Sunday.
Atletico arrives at the tournament following a season filled with high expectations but ultimately falling short, as Simeone’s team was unable to secure any silverware before their trip to the United States.
Now, with the tournament on the horizon, the manager is ready to lead his team into battle against the “finest teams in the world.”
“We enter a competition with some of the strongest contenders, including the Copa Libertadores champions, the Champions League titleholders, and another well-respected team that holds an important title: we are four formidable teams.”
“It will be challenging, as always in the Club World Cup, and that’s why we face the best teams in the world. We’ll see how it unfolds.”
Though many pundits have dismissed the tournament before it even begins, questioning how seriously teams will approach it, for Simeone, it remains a priority.
“It holds the same significance that all coaches attribute to it and for all the players who will embark on their first match in this tournament.”
Up first for Atletico is a potentially daunting challenge against the reigning Champions League holders, PSG.
‘El Cholo’ is hopeful that his players can find a way to make an impact against their European counterparts.
Simeone stated: “We are up against the rightful Champions League champions. They’ve assembled a brilliant team featuring many exceptional young talents, along with a coach (Luis Enrique) who has unwavering confidence in his approach.”
“He has consistently demonstrated his prowess wherever he has managed. We have our strengths, and we will strive, as always, to shape the game to suit us and place it in a context where we can exploit their weaknesses.”
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With Barcelona missing from the tournament, Atletico carries the flag for Spain alongside their city neighbours Real Madrid, something Simeone believes attests to the progress his team has realised in recent years.
“The World Cup underscores that Atletico Madrid has evolved significantly,” Simeone stated with enthusiasm.
“We compete in a LaLiga that features Barcelona and Real Madrid, and arriving at this point has required four years of consistent Champions League performances.
“This achievement has enabled us to be here today. I’m confident that Atletico’s development on the world stage is crucial and continually raises new expectations for our future.”
Following their match against PSG, Los Rojiblancos will take on the ‘hosts’ Seattle Sounders on June 19th, before concluding their group fixtures against Botafogo.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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