Atletico Madrid manager Matarazzo knows that to beat Atletico Madrid, his team must be at their best.

Matarazzo is clear that the players must remember the competitive intensity they showed in the Copa del Rey final five months ago when they defeated Atletico Madrid. Only by replicating that performance do they have a chance to beat their opponents again in La Liga.

After Monday's away match against Elche, Matarazzo believes Atletico Madrid has recovered well. "We are in good shape. This week is slightly longer than previous weeks. We had a day off and had our best training session since the post-match recovery. We are all looking forward to playing a great game against Atletico Madrid."

When reminded that the team had been under pressure after the red card, Matarazzo reflected on the experience. "There is always self-criticism, especially after winning. Players are more receptive to criticism following a victory. We must do better and learn how to recover during difficult periods, like after the red card and when Elche scored. But we also have to acknowledge that if we had made it 0-3, the game would have been very clear in our favor. We should take this match as a lesson for continued improvement."

Regarding recalling the Copa del Rey final before Sunday's match against Atletico Madrid, he said: "There are pros and cons. What I want to remember is our competitive intensity at that time—how we fought in that game—because to beat such an opponent, you need that intensity. But Sunday is Sunday, and now we are competing for points in La Liga. Recalling the Copa del Rey will not help us win."

He was also asked about Marrero's start in the Elche match, which was the biggest surprise in his lineup. "I said at the beginning of the season that we have two very good goalkeepers. Alex performed well in recent matches, and Unai also played well when given the opportunity. It is important to keep both of them in shape. I will make a decision on Sunday."

Pablo Marín has been training with the team for several days after being absent throughout pre-season and the start of this season. When asked if he was ready to be included in the squad, Matarazzo said: "I think he is in good condition and very motivated. He enjoys training and brings a lot of energy. He cannot play much now, but I like what I see in training, and we will see if he can make the squad."

Matarazzo also spoke about Hector Fort, who is not yet ready to start. "I am very satisfied with him. He is fast, strong, and very active. He is capable of playing more than he did last game, but he cannot yet play 90 minutes."

He also commented on Suchic, who appears to have gained confidence. "When he knows what he wants to do, he can change the game. He has that ability. When he has the ball, he can accelerate suddenly. I am very satisfied with him, and if he can do this more consistently, he will become a better player."

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com