Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has warned that the fast tempo of English football could pose a serious challenge for his side ahead of their UEFA Champions League round of 16 clash with Tottenham Hotspur.
Speaking on Monday before Tuesday’s first-leg encounter at the Cívitas Metropolitano, Simeone noted that teams from the Premier League generally play at a quicker pace than sides in other European leagues.
According to the Argentine tactician, the tempo of English football stands out compared to competitions such as La Liga, Serie A and the Bundesliga.
“English teams have a faster pace. I don’t know exactly why,” Simeone told reporters. “Some say referees allow the game to flow more.
I’m not sure if it’s tactical preparation or something else, but the speed is clearly higher.”
Tottenham, despite battling inconsistency in the league, impressed during the Champions League league phase where they finished fourth.
Clubs from England also dominated the competition’s later stages, with six teams advancing to the round of 16, while Spain has three representatives.
However, Simeone insisted that intensity alone would not decide the outcome of the tie.
“Technical quality will also be important. A team cannot win a match simply with intensity,” he said.
The Atletico boss also dismissed suggestions that his team are favourites heading into the encounter, even though Spurs arrive after a difficult run of results.
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“When you step onto the pitch, you don’t think about standings or form,” Simeone added. “Players only think about performing well and winning.”
Tuesday’s clash could also see Atletico face a familiar opponent in midfielder Conor Gallagher, who joined Tottenham in January after spending time with the Spanish club.
Simeone praised the English midfielder for his attitude during his stint in Madrid.
“He is a humble player who worked very well with us. Coming from midfield he is very dangerous, and we have good memories of his time here,” he said.