The Return of a Classic Touchline Rivalry
Diego Simeone and Jose Mourinho are set to face each other on the touchline for the first time since 2014. The two managers meet in Sunday's Madrid Derby with Real Madrid currently sitting two points ahead of Atletico after six games in LaLiga. Both teams are trying to catch early leaders Barcelona.
Simeone spoke of his admiration for the Real Madrid manager ahead of the clash. "I have huge respect for Mourinho, I've been an admirer of his for a long time," Simeone said on Saturday. The last time these two faced each other in a derby was over a decade ago, when Mourinho's Real Madrid side won 2-1.
Squad Selection and Tactical Composure
Atletico Madrid have experienced some difficulties in attack during the opening weeks of the season. Alexander Sorloth is currently out with an injury. Meanwhile, new signing Julián Álvarez has struggled to get consistent minutes. Álvarez started against Liverpool on September 9, where he got an assist, but he missed the matches against Real Sociedad and Osasuna.
Simeone confirmed that Álvarez will be in the squad for the derby. He said he will decide later if the forward starts the match or comes on during the second half. New arrival Jonathan David could feature after scoring two goals in his last two games.
Simeone also warned his players about Real Madrid's speed on the counter attack. He noted that Real Madrid are better in transition than Atletico. When they win the ball, they immediately look for Kylian Mbappé and Vinicius Junior. Simeone wants his team to avoid turnovers so they do not allow Real Madrid to use those transitions.
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