Atlético Madrid coach Diego Simeone has insisted that Manchester United remain a dangerous opponent, despite a run of form that has left the club mid-table in the Premier League. United were held to a 1-1 draw by struggling, 10-man Tottenham at Old Trafford on Saturday, making it four games without a win in the league, with just six points from six games and growing pressure on manager Michael Carrick.
Atlético host United at the Metropolitano on Tuesday, after an opening round that saw the La Liga club beaten 2-1 by Liverpool, while United beat Sabah 4-0. "We face an opponent that applies intense pressure in your half, closing you down quickly, and has players with speed," Simeone said at a news conference on Monday. "Despite their recent results, including a lot of draws, they are still creating the kind of danger that they did last year. They're a strong team."
United qualified for the Champions League after a third-placed finish in the Premier League last season, with Carrick making an impact after replacing Ruben Amorim midway through the campaign. Atlético defender Dávid Hancko echoed the praise. "There are plenty of positives, even if they haven't started well," he said. "They have great players and are undoubtedly a giant. We'll have to play at 100% to win."
Atlético are still waiting for star forward Julián Álvarez to impress this season, following his bid to leave the club in the summer. Álvarez has yet to score, registering just one assist, against Liverpool, after an injury-hit start to 2026-27. "Forwards with Julián's characteristics always need goals, not just him," Simeone said. "Beyond his finishing, he's a team player who links up well with others. He has many more tools in his arsenal than just scoring."
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing