Atlético Madrid Can Aspire To Be The Best - Aguirre

Atlético Madrid might be without both Maxi Rodríguez and Maniche for their match with Valencia this weekend, but confidence is still high in the camp.

The Champions League side finished last year in the third in the league, and according to coach Javier Aguirre, they can achieve great things in the New Year.

"The 23 players all have my confidence. I am very pleased with the team and with this squad we can aspire to be the best," he told AS.

"The start of the season took it's toll, but we have worked well, and I am feeling very good."

Indeed, Atlético are unbeaten in the league since mid-October when they lost to arch-rivals Real Madrid, and a win against Valencia would see them move second in the league.

Ahead of the match Aguirre said that he believes his team have had a successful break, and are raring to go.

"I believe that the break has meant that the team returns physically and mentally better when they left last year; we are better than ever," he mused.

Aguirre also spoke briefly about his opposite number this weekend, Unai Emery, and his fellow countryman Hugo Sánchez, who has taken over at Almería.

"Unai Emery is a very well prepared coach. It will be a good match this weekend between two teams competing for the top places," he declared. "Hugo Sánchez is a man who has generated expectation both as a coach and a player, his numbers tell everything."

Atlético will be without midfielder Éver Banega for the match with Valencia this weekend, as he is not allowed to play against his parent club whilst on loan. However, Aguirre still took time to praise the player today, despite the fact many Atlético Madrid fans have not been convinced by him.

"Éver, along with our five other signings, have been a success. We have improved in quality with these six players and they have settled quickly. The quality has given us more, and I am very pleased with him," he concluded.

James Walker-Roberts, Goal.com


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