Atletico Madrid captain Gabi has refused to be drawn into a debate over who are the favourites for the Champions League game against Milan.
The sides meet on Wednesday at San Siro and Gabi insists that talking about favourites prior to kick-off is a futile exercise, with events during the match the only thing that matter.
“The favourites are decided on the pitch,” Gabi told reporters.
“We have great respect for Milan and the club's history. Deciding who is favourite is for the press room.”
Gabi added that Atletico belong in the latter round of the competition and a positive result in Italy is vital ahead of the return bout.
“We're excited about playing here. We've earned the right,” the midfielder said.
“We want to keep working the way we've been doing up to now and come away with a good result to take to Vicente Calderon.”
The game sees Atletico Coach Diego Simeone return to San Siro, the ground he called home during his two years as a player with Inter.
“I've seen Simeone's goals against Milan,” Gabi revealed.
“It was an important moment for him and we hope to be able to celebrate some goals like our manager did.”
