Real Madrid have come to respect Atletico de Madrid and even fear playing them, according to Los Rojiblancos captain Gabi.
Speaking ahead of the derby on Saturday, the midfielder to Cadena Cope that after years of being dominated by the city rivals, Atletico have learned how perform against the 10-time European Cup winners.
Similar to a number of he team mates, he believes Atletico’s best chance against Los Blancos to maintain a high-tempo and aggressive game in which don’t give Carlo Ancelotti’s men any time or space on the ball.
The La Liga champions have the upper hand on their rivals this season having seen them off in a closely-fought Spanish Supercopa last month.
Gabi stated: “Madrid respect us. They don’t like playing against us any longer because we pose them problems. Even so, our style is not going to change after so much success and the players here now will continue that.”
And in a warning to their city rivals, he added: “The best is yet to come and there is room for improvement. However, this game is very important for us because we can put some distance between ourselves and Madrid.”
The 31-year-old was also asked about a potential call-up to the Spanish national side despite his advancing years, and admitted he would love to play for La Roja.
“I can’t do anything else. I’m giving everything and winning titles. However, it’s the coach who decides. But I would love it,” he admitted.
