Diego Simeone has dismissed the notion of Atletico Madrid fearing Lionel Messi in Saturday’s clash with Barcelona, instead choosing to praise the “incredible work” of opposite number Ernesto Valverde.
Atletico head to Camp Nou trailing the leaders by eight points in the table, meaning anything less than a win is likely to end their hopes of winning La Liga.
Barca’s latest treble charge has been spearheaded by Messi, who has scored 42 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions in another spectacular season.
When asked about Messi, Simeone told a news conference: “The word isn’t ‘fear’, but respect.
“There is a seniority Barcelona have, and what I would call the incredible work the coach is doing, keeping them alive in three competitions.
“Last season, they went through in Rome what happened to us in Turin [when Atleti lost 3-0 to Juventus], and they couldn’t win everything, but they tried for the treble.
“Now, they have an enviable position in the league, in the Champions League… it’s difficult to be a team like that and keep winning. Valverde, with his style of play, is having an amazing season.”
Sport Tainment 
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