Barcelona defender Marc Bartra has acknowledged the threat posed by Atletico Madrid in the race for this season’s La Liga title.
The 22-year-old, speaking at an event to promote the new SEAT Leon in conjunction with Playstation 4, insisted it is down to the values Atleti boss Diego Simeone has introduced into his team.
“Atletico are pushing us hard and you only have to see them play. They have a winning attitude and I think that is down to their Coach, who has instilled it into them.
“They have good players and are improving all the time, something we will also have to do if we are to remain leaders,” he maintained.
Bartra has had a more prominent role to play in the Barca first team this season, having already equalled the total number of League games he featured in last term.
“It’s my second year in the first team and I’m very conscious of the players here because they are the best in the world.
“From the moment I got into the side they have treated me well and I’ve tried to follow the advice I’ve received from them and the Coach.
“I think this year things are going much better for me. I feel well both physically and mentally, so that’s been very important,” explained the Spanish Under-21 international.
