Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke has revealed that boss Diego Simeone has a profound effect on him and the rest of the players.
Speaking to AS before Los Rojiblancos take on Olympiacos in their Group A Champions League game on Wednesday, the Spain international told what it was like to play under Simeone and how Atleti prepare for games.
“Simeone has a profound effect on us all and so does [assistant] Mono Burgos, who also does an amazing job but is maybe not as intense,” said the 22-year-old.
“They both do a great job and maybe this is reflected on the pitch. We get ready for games by concentrating on our opponents, by analysing their strengths and weaknesses so that it brings us closer to victory.
“Simeone has made sure we are the same as last season. We have different players but they have needed to adapt because the most important thing is the group.
“The work we do on the pitch, all the running, fighting, giving everything, is what benefits everyone.”
Koke described what it was like to play for a club such as Atletico, where he has been since he was aged six.
“It’s a feeling. People live for it. I don’t think there is a similar experience at any other club and it’s hard to explain what it means to be part of Atleti, but it’s unique.
“I’ve been at this club since I was a child and it has always been part of my life. I am a club man and I’ll fight for it,” he declared.
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