Diego Simeone has reflected that Atletico Madrid’s strong start at home this League season is the result of a team ‘obsessed with winning’.
Atleti moved up to 44 points to end the first half of the season with thanks to Sunday’s 2-0 win over Real Zaragoza, with the win taking the team to 10 wins from their opening 10 League matches played at the Calderon this season.
That is the first time the team have achieved that since 1975-76 and for Simeone is fully deserved.
“Stopping to look at those things is quite good for us. I appreciate greatly what was done in this game,” enthused El Cholo at full-time.
“It has been a very good game. The first half was almost perfect, we pressured the opponent in the field, the level of the forwards gave us much depth, Diego Costa was extraordinary.
“The game from Costa, particularly in the first half, was impressive. The team are obsessed with winning the game and they showed that: an obsession with winning and I think one that he has taken them to.
“I always expect the best. The work from the end of last season was very good and we had an opportunity in pre-season.
“Hardly any of the players were involved in international tournaments over the summer, except Diego, and everyone here has given us a greater chance to strengthen the group and the team.
“And here we are. I think the team are showing a clear identity beyond being able to play better or worse, with a distinct identity that has allowed them to finish with a strong first round.”
