Diego Simeone has insisted there is no pressure on Atletico Madrid ahead of their Champions League semi-final against Arsenal, only responsibility and excitement. The Argentine manager, who celebrated his 56th birthday on the eve of the tie, is still searching for his first Champions League title despite reaching four semi-finals and two finals during his tenure.
An Extraordinary Journey
Simeone described Atletico's continued presence in the latter stages of Europe's elite competition as "extraordinary." He said: "It is extraordinary that Atletico Madrid is in a Champions League semi-final again after nine years and after doing it for the fourth time in 14 years. That really is wonderful, incredible. I think that faith, excitement, and the contagiousness that our fans transmit to us will do us a lot of good."
Facing a Tough Opponent
Looking ahead to the clash with Arsenal, Simeone acknowledged the quality of Mikel Arteta's side. "We are going to face a tough game with a very good opponent. Their set-piece strategy is very well worked. But we believe we can stop them. They are a good team, but football doesn't owe anyone anything. Things are deserved and achieved, and for that, you have to work hard and also have a bit of luck."
Dreaming but Grounded
While admitting he dreams of finally lifting the trophy, Simeone remained pragmatic. "I always say that dreaming is good, but reality is what happens on earth. And what happens on earth is what we do and what God wants. Honestly, there is no pressure. There is responsibility, the excitement of being close to a huge goal that the club has never achieved. We have to prepare well, play the game we want, and take it where we can hurt them."
Arsenal beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 earlier this season, but Simeone is confident his side can overturn that result. The first leg takes place at the Emirates Stadium.
