Atlético de Madrid is starting a new stage in the Champions League and is doing so with the conviction that it will take a step forward. The Colchoneros, among whom is Rodrigo Riquelme , know that this tournament is crucial. It is a good measuring stick to determine their form at the start of the season.
Despite their good start to the season, Atlético de Madrid are aware that they must not let their guard down at any time. Rodrigo Riquelme , one of the great 'pearls' of the Atlético youth team, is cautious but excited at the same time. Consolidated with Diego Pablo Simeone , he wants more and seeks to dream big.
Rodrigo Riquelme's declaration of intent regarding the Champions League and Atlético de Madrid
In an interview with Mundo Deportivo , one of the topics he has discussed is the top continental competition. Rodrigo Riquelme has been candid about this tournament, the great pending subject for Atlético de Madrid .
“Well, we have to be ambitious. I think that in life you have to be ambitious. We have enough squad to compete with anyone and be able to be at the top, that's how I think.”
Rodrigo Riquelme and the Champions League, the most important tournament in Europe
“I have the same enthusiasm I had when I started last year. It is a competition that everyone dreams of playing in. Of course, of winning.”
"I think the format will change a bit this year, but we have things very clear. We are very focused on the role we want to play. We have full confidence in the group."
Rodrigo Riquelme's analysis of the new Champions League format
Another of the issues that Rodrigo Riquelme wanted to review is the new format of the old European Cup . With more matches to be played in this first phase and a new way of accessing the last 16, Atlético de Madrid must be attentive. More alert than ever to avoid mistakes of any kind.
“It’s a bit different but I think it can also be good because there are different games, not just the same ones. “Also a bit of the demand of having two more games, which is something that will be noticeable. We are focused on doing the best we can, we don’t let ourselves be influenced by that kind of thing.”
“The format is what it is, I don’t think we have to look for the format’s flaws because that’s not how we are. For us, each game is a final. Game by game is how we are going to achieve things and that is the general thought.”
Rodrigo Riquelme, clear on whether Atlético de Madrid have a chance in this Champions League
“We feel very excited, very enthusiastic, and eager to do well and have ambition for another year. I think that dreaming is more than allowed and of course we want the Champions League , it is something that we all have in store. I am sure that sooner or later it will come, hopefully as soon as possible.”