Atlético de Madrid - Manchester United: Diego Simeone's strong warning

Diego Simeone is wary of Manchester United ahead of Tuesday's European clash in Madrid

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Atlético de Madrid - Manchester United: Diego Simeone's strong warning

13.10.26 15:00 Champions League

Atletico Madrid

Manchester United

Beaten by Liverpool in their opening match, Los Colchoneros want to respond against Manchester United in the Champions League.

The Champions League has a standout fixture in store this Tuesday with the clash between Atlético de Madrid and Manchester United. At home, Los Colchoneros will be looking to bounce back after their 2-1 defeat to Liverpool on the opening matchday.

Before the match, Diego Simeone was keen to warn his players. Despite the Red Devils' inconsistent results, the Argentine coach believes Manchester United remain an especially difficult team to handle.

“They are a very strong team”

“It’s Manchester United. Beyond the results and the draws they have obtained, they are a very strong team. We are facing a very good team that presses in the defensive phase, makes good off-the-ball movements and is good at stealing your time when they press.”

Simeone's statement highlights his caution ahead of an important match for Atlético de Madrid, who are already under pressure after their poor start to the competition.

🚨 Diego Simeone: “This is Manchester United. Beyond the results and draws they’ve got, they’re a very strong side”. “We’re up against a very good team, pressing in opposition, good off-the-ball movement, good at taking time away from you when pressing”. https://t.co/U5Tf8rxn15
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 12, 2026

The last meeting dates back to 2022

The last official meeting between the two clubs took place in the round of 16 of the 2021-2022 Champions League. In the first leg, on 23 February 2022 in Madrid, Atlético and Manchester United drew 1-1, with goals from João Félix and Anthony Elanga.

In the return leg, on 15 March 2022 at Old Trafford, Los Colchoneros made the difference through Renan Lodi to win 1-0. Atlético thus eliminated Manchester United with a 2-1 aggregate score.

More than four years later, the two teams will meet again with different stakes, but still in a top-level European atmosphere.