Bayern Munich midfielder Xabi Alonso has heaped praise on Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone ahead of their clash on Wednesday.
The former Real Madrid star – who featured in the 2014 Champions League final triumph over Atletico – believes the Argentine’s achievements at the Calderon have been unsurpassed.
“It's amazing what he has achieved at Atletico – they are now at the elite of European football,” explained the 34-year-old in an interview with Marca.
“He has that charisma and that leadership with the players and the fans, with whom he has a great and unique bond.
“That is down to Cholo and the atmosphere he has created at the club.
“I think he has to feel identified with projects, he wouldn’t just take on any old job – I could see him at Inter or Argentina in the future, I think those would fit.
“He is a super coach, but it is now too late in my career to work with him and whilst we might not always share the same ideas, it would have been fascinating for any player to be coached by him.
“If you ask me who deserved to win last year’s tournament…well, it would be very close between Atletico and Bayern. This year they have another chance of winning it.”
