Statements from Pellegrini
(The team) “The team is doing well and motivation is at an all-time high. We need to now put our Champions League victory aside and concentrate on the League, as we’re up against a tough team, and Atlético de Madrid are really on form at the moment. We’d love to beat them at their home ground and be second in the League. The important thing for us is to believe in what we can do and always try and improve on what we’ve already achieved.”
(The rival) “Atlético de Madrid have always been a difficult team to beat. They’ve been performing really well in recent matches, and it’s impossible to know what they’ll do next. Rather than worrying about what they’re going to do on the pitch, I’m focusing on our game and maintaining the rhythm we’ve showed recently. They’ve got some impressive players who perform consistently well week on week.”
(Performance of both teams) “In theory it should be a really good match, though we’ll see after 90 minutes what happens. Often when there’s a lot of expectation and anxiety surrounding a particular match, the result reflects the poor game play. I’m sure the stadium will be full, and the fans enjoy the match between two good teams, both with great players. I hope we put on a good show and win this match.”
(Simeone) “I think Simeone’s work is definitely reflected in Atlético de Madrid’s performance, the results they’ve been getting and certain characteristics of their game play. The players are all focused on an effective system of play, and always show a very convincing performance on the pitch.
(Falcao) “I think he’s a great striker who’s playing really well at the moment. I don’t think he’s the best striker in the world though, like Messi or Ronaldo, but he’s definitely a player to be wary of.”
(Iturra chosen for Chile) “I’m really pleased for Iturra and the others. We’ve got six players who have been selected to play for their national teams. The more men we have in international competition, the better it is for the Club, as it shows they’re all performing well on the pitch at a local level.”
(Sports City) “Not much has happened really, and nothing has really changed. From a personal point of view, I think the Sports City is very important for the Club and for it’s growth. We’re hoping everything gets resolved as quickly as possible, as it would be great for the Club. The owners are very conscious of that and are really hoping things start moving quickly.”