Rhino: Agencies – Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone admitted that rivals Real Madrid have more history than his club in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals on Tuesday.

Simeone, 54, said during the pre-match press conference: “I always put Barcelona and Real Madrid in their position because of their history, so nothing has changed. “They both have a great history, and we are evolving, which is beautiful.” He believes the Rojiblancos have a chance to write a beautiful story at the Santiago Bernabéu tomorrow. “Since we always associate situations with history, and history exists, Real Madrid’s history in the Champions League is great, and tomorrow we have a great opportunity,” he added.

Simeone believes that the domestic rivalry between the two sides will not affect the continental showdown: “I see a game of respect against a big opponent, and I think they respect us just as much,” he said. He continued: “I think all the previous games won’t matter, this is the Champions League. For the city, I think it’s a showpiece for Atletico and Real to face each other.”

On his Argentine striker, Julian Alvarez, he said: “He’s still young, he needs to continue like this, he needs to keep developing.”

He added: “He has room for improvement and hopefully the team and the coaching staff will help him continue to develop, he seems full of energy and enthusiasm, wanting to do more, and this will enhance his development.