We will sacrifice everything - Diego Simeone blows hot ahead of Madrid derby

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has promised that his players will give everything on the pitch to overcome Real Madrid in today’s highly anticipated La Liga derby at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Real Madrid have enjoyed a flawless start to the season, winning all six of their league matches under Xabi Alonso.

However, Atletico have proven a difficult hurdle for Los Blancos in recent years, with Real failing to win any of the last five league derbies.

Despite their reputation as Madrid’s toughest rivals, Atletico’s form has been inconsistent this season. Simeone’s men have collected just nine points from their opening six fixtures, managing only two victories.

Speaking ahead of the showdown, Simeone acknowledged the improvements Real Madrid have made this season but insisted his players are ready to rise to the occasion.

“I don’t dwell on the past, I live in the present,” Simeone told the club’s official website.

He continued, “(Real) Madrid have improved their team play, they attack well positionally, and the coach has worked on their defence, getting them to press higher up the pitch, which is why they’ve won all their games.

“We are just focusing on preparing for the match and ending this run of four matches in nine days, being close to the players, who have to make a huge effort, with only three days’ rest. The effort will depend on the mind, on sacrifice.”

The clash at the Metropolitano promises to be decisive in shaping the early race for the La Liga title, with Atletico seeking to halt their city rivals’ perfect run and revive their own stuttering campaign.