Atletico de Madrid manager Diego Simeone has conceded city rivals Real Madrid have improved on last term and a more frightening prospect this season.
Los Blancos defeated Atletico 4-1 to win the Champions League in May and also picked up the Copa del Rey trophy. But they finished third in La Liga, behind Barcelona and Los Colchoneros, who won their first league title in 18 years.
Since the end of the campaign, Carlo Ancelotti has bolstered his squad with the arrival of World Cup winner Toni Kroos and the tournament’s top scorer James Rodriguez. He has also added Keylor Navas to the playing squad, with the Costa Rican shot stopper replacing the departed Diego Lopez, who left for AC Milan.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Spanish Supercopa first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu, Simeone stated: “Madrid have improved. Kroos gives them greater potential in the middle of the field, more balance. It is a lot better than last year’s team.”
Meanwhile, Atletico’s captain, Gabi, has said there are no thoughts of revenge on the players’ minds as they take on Real. He told journalists the Champions League defeat is behind them and they are focusing on lifting the Supercopa.
“There is no feeling of revenge for the Champions League final. It is an opportunity to win a title. Real Madrid are one of the best teams in the world. The Supercopa will be won by who is better physically and mentally,” he stated.
Real Madrid did not improve from last reason because they lost the game today to Atletico Madrid.