Diego Simeone insists Atletico Madrid’s Champions League win against Bayern Munich is already behind them as they prepare for Valencia in La Liga on Sunday.
Atleti’s 1-0 victory over Bayern midweek was widely praised by media quarters, but Simeone made it clear his side would not dwell on the result when they travelled to Mestalla.
“The players have worked very well these last few days,” the Coach said at a Press conference.
“Our important game in the Champions League is behind us, in the knowledge football lives for today, and that will be seen by how we play [on Sunday].
“You have to enter the game with intensity and concentration, knowing that our opponents are a very important team like Valencia, recovering from a not-so-good start. Two wins give confidence.
“New Valencia Coach? We’re not focusing on such situations to seek the advantage in the game.
“We believe we can find ways to play the game where we want, but on the pitch. Our ideas are clear, to hurt them and curb their speed in attack.
“The team have changed our results. From that, we’re all living much better. Against Alaves and Leganes, we played the way we usually do but drew.
“It’s logical that a team who have been doing what they’ve done for a few years are so demanding.
“That’s why we know that the good things we did against Bayern are already behind us.”
Sunday’s match also marks 50 years since the Vicente Calderon was opened.
“It’s a historic moment for the club and there will be many people at the stadium,” Cholo added.
“There’s been some great memories. I’m 46 and I haven’t lived all of them at the Calderon, but a lot of people have. The history is respected and the Calderon will be respected for a lifetime.”
