Diego Simeone: Bayern are stronger than last season

Diego Simeone: Bayern are stronger than last season

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Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone believes that Bayern Munich are now a stronger side than they were last campaign. 

Ahead of Los Colchoneros’ Champions League clash with the German powerhouses, Simeone heaped praise on the side which Atletico edged past in the semi-final stage of the previous season’s competition.

“The players are almost the same, possibly a bit stronger with Alaba and Ribery on the left who connect well going forward,” he said.

“The arrival of Hummels brings experience, height and leadership. Plus all the brilliant players they have — so they are a very complete squad.”

However, Bayern are now managed by Carlo Ancelotti as opposed to Pep Guardiola, and as a result Simeone is expecting a different sort of threat.

“They are both dangerous,” he explained.

“Before there were the organised movements in attack to try and look for numerical superiority.

“And now they are more direct and using individual brilliance. I see it as just as difficult this way as the other.”

The two bosses are no strangers, having previously both played and managed against each other.

“I have great respect and admiration for Carlo — the person and coach he is, and has shown over his career,” Simeone said.

“We met as players, when I was young and he was a great player.

“Everyone has their own personality, some show it outside, others keep it inside. Neither is better or worse — everyone does what they think is best. But the most important thing is the atmosphere, and the players.”

Bayern and Atletico face off in their matchday two Champions League clash at the Vicente Calderón on Thursday.

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