Xabi Alonso, coach of Bayer Leverkusen, praised Atlético de Madrid on Monday, a team they will face this Tuesday at the Metropolitano Stadium in a UEFA Champions League group stage match. The Spanish coach highlighted the quality of the team led by Diego Simeone, describing it as "a magnificent team" that has made a strong investment this season and has the best squad of the last ten years.

"Preparing for it is always a challenge. I think this year’s Atleti is an outstanding team, and that’s motivation enough," said Alonso during the pre-match press conference. He also emphasized Simeone's influence on the club, stating that his connection with the team is "intense, perfect, and successful." "The personality and character of 'El Cholo' are fully reflected in Atlético," he added.

The Leverkusen coach also praised Atlético's qualities this season, highlighting their ability to compete in multiple tournaments thanks to their squad depth. "They almost have all positions doubled with very competitive players. They can rotate and still maintain their level. I believe they are ready to have great ambitions this year, both in the Champions League and La Liga, where they will fight until the end," he affirmed.

Alonso, who knows the Metropolitano well from his 2022 visit as Bayer Leverkusen's coach, emphasized the evolution of his own team over the last two years. "Many things have changed in Leverkusen since then. We are now in the Champions League, which demands adapting to different phases of the game, both dominant and non-dominant moments. That learning process will help us in this match," he explained. He also recalled that Atlético is experiencing a positive moment compared to 2022, when they were eliminated from European competition.

The Basque coach seized the opportunity to highlight the potential of some of his players, such as Florian Wirtz, whom he described as "a very special and key player" for the team’s performance. He also confirmed the return of striker Victor Boniface, who has recovered from an injury that had sidelined him since November. "He is very important for everyone, but especially for himself. He still needs more training, but this is a crucial step forward," he declared.

Lastly, Alonso avoided addressing recent controversies surrounding Simeone's statements about alleged refereeing favors for Real Madrid. "I come from Germany; I understand the controversies, but I’m not going to enter the debate. I’ll leave it to those involved," he concluded, closing his remarks with a diplomatic tone and focusing on the challenge ahead for his team.