Diego Simeone: It's very tough to reach where Atlético is this season

Earlier this week, Atlético Madrid drew 1-1 at home against Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, and their focus is undoubtedly on Tuesday's return leg. Before that crucial match, however, the "Rojiblancos" face another away fixture – a La Liga clash against Valencia on Saturday at 5:15 PM. For this encounter, the team will be without key players such as Julián Álvarez, Alexander Sørloth, Pablo Barrios, and Giuliano Simeone, all sidelined with various injuries.

"I feel calm," stated Cholo. "I give my absolute best, as do my players. That's what I need: to see this energy, which goes hand-in-hand with what we've been working on for 14 years. It's been a long journey, with difficulties. It's very tough to reach where we are this season – it's a gift the team has given itself. I hope we can see it through to the end."

The match at Mestalla is not without significance, as Atlético currently sits fourth in La Liga and hopes to overtake Villarreal.

"It's important to catch Villarreal. Obviously, this is a significant match against an opponent who needs points, driven by the pressure from their fans and the intensity Valencia has shown since the new coach arrived. It promises to be an extremely difficult game," Simeone believes.

"We have to rotate due to the players' condition. We'll be looking for fresh players to compete – that's the most important thing for us. It's clear we'll rely on those in the best shape to be as competitive as possible in Valencia. But our enthusiasm is always high, and our belief even higher," Cholo added.