Malmo boss Age Hareide has described Diego ‘Cholo’ Simeone as the world’s best Coach ahead of their Champions League match on Wednesday.
The Swedes travel to Madrid for the Group A clash after disposing of Olympiacos 2-0 in their last game, but having lost 2-0 to Juventus in the opening fixture.
Former Manchester City and Norwich defender Hareide admits it will be a tough task for his side, particularly as he will be pitting his wits against Argentine tactician Simeone.
“Right now Simeone is the best Coach in the world,” the Norwegian told a Press conference.
“He has done a great job, won the League last season, and has a very well organised side. It is a perfectly oiled machine and his work with Atletico has been impeccable.
“He has successfully transformed the team into a winning one that wears you down on the pitch, whilst also elevating Atletico to great heights by fighting for La Liga and taking his players to the final of the Champions League.
“It’s going to be a very difficult game against one of the two strongest teams in the group, so for us this is a real motivation.
“We saw their game against Juventus and noticed they are a very hard team to beat, solid on the pitch and dangerous up front.”
The 61-year-old is aware Atleti pose a problem at set-pieces and says his team will try to counter that threat.
“It’s very difficult to prepare for as they are very good in these situations. Everyone will try to be vigilant because we know this is one of their strengths, but they are still scoring goals in this way.
“We also know how hard it will be to stop them, but we’ll try to do that,” he added, although he admits the Swedes will not be paying attention to any particular player.
“They are all dangerous but what counts most with Atleti is their togetherness, which is the most dangerous thing they possess as a group.
“They are very compact and always remain as a unit. This is all inspired by their Coach, who manages them perfectly and is flawless,” concluded Hareide.
