Simeone warns Atletico Madrid not to underestimate Bayer Leverkusen [divider]
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has warned his side not to underestimate Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League Last 16.
“In the last 16 of the Champions League, if you slip up there is no let-off. That means we will have to be very attentive, especially in the first match, and above all focus on shutting down their fast breaks from midfield,” Simeone told Goal.
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Simeone guided the Rojiblancos to the La Liga title last season as well as the Champions League final.
The Argentinian manager has won seven of his eight two-legged ties as Atletico’s boss in European competition.
Atleti star Arda Turan is a doubt for the game, the Turkish international has established himself as a key member of Simeone’s side.
Bayer also have two Turkish international players. Centre back Ömer Toprak and attacking midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu.
Toprak is the Bundesliga outfits captain while Çalhanoğlu is one of the most promising young players in the team.
The Champions League Last 16 first-leg between the Rojiblancos and Bayer will be played in Germany on Wednesday.