Diego Simeone believes there will be no clear favourite when his Atletico Madrid team take on Marseille in Wednesday’s Europa League final.
The Argentine will be contesting his eighth final with Los Rojiblancos but insists, judging by his experiences in the past, that no side holds the advantage before the match kicks off in Lyon.
“Whenever I played in a final I experienced it with the same clarity, regardless of the talk or whatever else surrounds the game,” Simeone told a Press conference.
“That is for people who don’t take part, as the only things that matters are reality and what happens on the pitch.
“We know we’ll need to play against an opponent where we need to minimise their attacking game. Those who are there know how to play.
“We both play similar, direct football and share the same enthusiasm. They will be full of self-confidence, with a high rhythm to their game in midfield, and we must impose ourselves.
“Marseille are a dangerous team in every attacking aspect. Dimitri Payet imposes a rhythm with his mind and the speed of his feet. Their Coach has also done a very good job.”
“In addition, Simeone discussed his suspension from the bench and praised his assistant German Burgos, who will replace him on the touchline.
“I mentioned it in the previous match that beyond the sadness I feel at not being there, I feel safe with his presence.
“We know each other inside out and understand football in the same way. We are a hard-working side and I trust German’s presence at the head of the team,” he concluded.
