Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone is gearing up for the high-stakes LaLiga showdown against city rivals Real Madrid, emphasizing his team’s current form and mindset over past results. As the capital’s derby approaches, Simeone remains grounded, focusing on Atletico’s readiness amid a demanding schedule rather than dwelling on historical outcomes.
Atletico vs Real: Contrasting Starts to the Season
Real Madrid have stormed into the new LaLiga campaign with six consecutive victories, showcasing a dominant run of form. However, their city rivals Atletico Madrid have proven a difficult hurdle, with Real failing to secure a win in the last five Madrid derbies. Despite Real’s impressive streak, Simeone refuses to be distracted by historical trends, insisting the focus is on what his team can achieve now.
Simeone’s Present-Minded Approach
“I live in the present, not the past,” Simeone stated during his pre-match press conference. He acknowledged Real’s recent improvements under coach Xabi Alonso, particularly highlighting their tactical advancements in attack and a more aggressive defensive press. This strategic evolution explains their unbeaten run so far, but Simeone remains confident Atletico can meet the challenge.
Atletico’s Transition Phase and Squad Dynamics
Atletico’s start to the season has been more uneven, with just nine points from six games and only two wins. Simeone pointed out that the team is still adapting, with eight new signings blending with seven returning players from last season. “We are in the process of building a better team,” he explained. “Some things have gone well; others need improvement as we continue this journey.”
Managing Fatigue Ahead of the Derby
The upcoming derby comes amid a congested fixture list that has tested Atletico’s endurance. They faced Rayo Vallecano just days ago, leaving the squad with only three days of rest before facing Real. Simeone highlighted the physical and mental demands on his players, stressing the importance of focus and sacrifice. “The effort will depend on the mind and sacrifice,” he said, underlining the need for resilience as Atletico look to halt Real’s momentum.
