Simeone: "Want to Hurt Real Madrid," Great Respect for Mourinho

Diego Simeone, the coach of Atletico Madrid, declared his desire to "hurt" Real Madrid in their upcoming clash, while simultaneously expressing "great respect" for Jose Mourinho. Simeone's statements came during a press conference held by the Argentine coach ahead of the Madrid derby, scheduled between Atletico and Real Madrid on Sunday at the Civitas Metropolitano stadium. Atletico Madrid currently sits fourth in the Spanish league with 13 points, while Real Madrid holds second place with 15 points. Simeone touched upon the tactical aspects of the match, pointing out each team's characteristics: "They will have faster and more direct attacking transitions than us... They are strong, and they exploit this advantage." He further asserted: "We have to play the match in the best possible way, so that the opponent does not feel comfortable in the quick transitions they execute." Simeone emphasized that "the derby is different; there is immense tension and hope due to the rivalry, and as a result of the competitive spirit we have managed to regain over the past 15 years. Self-confidence is an important value in this match." The Argentine coach considered that "the previous match has nothing to do with the city derby, and I don't think it is related to Sunday's game. Both teams have good players, and we have to steer the match towards where we can hurt them." Simeone declined to reveal whether player Julian Alvarez would start, stating only: "He will be with us. We will decide whether he starts or comes on as a substitute in the second half." Regarding Mourinho, Simeone commented: "I don't want to talk about what happened many years ago. I have great respect for Mourinho; I admire him, and he knows how much I appreciate him. I hope we can compete, as we did when we faced each other."