In this round of the Champions League, Atletico Madrid will host Manchester United. Coach Simeone discussed Alvarez's goal drought at the pre-match press conference.

Alvarez's goal drought continues

It's not just him; all strikers need to score. He is not only decisive in front of goal but also a team player, good at cooperating with teammates. Besides scoring goals, he has many other abilities. He performed very well in the second half last Saturday, and I hope he can continue to improve to reach the level we expect of him.

After losing the first leg, this match is very important

We know the difficulty of this competition. In this format, whether at home or away, whether in the first match or the last, you must fight for points. Like all teams that want to advance, we certainly need points.

The final will be held at the Metropolitano Stadium. Does this fill you with anticipation?

I understand your focus on the Champions League final being held here, but we must remain grounded in reality. That means daily work, taking it one match at a time, and not fantasizing about things that are still far away, like reaching the final. Fighting one match at a time is our strength.

What kind of Manchester United do you expect to face?

We played very well against Alavés. Manchester United will press high in our half, and their initial press won't give us time to deal with the ball. Their players are also very fast. Although they have had many draws this season, they have maintained last season's standard. They are a very strong team, but we must try to make the game unfold in a way that allows us to create danger.

Is there anything about your team that worries you?

My concern is how to select the best lineup and manage the players carefully tomorrow, because the match will be very long and tough, and energy must be distributed wisely for a good performance.

Does the pre-season match have any reference value?

Hantzko explained it well; there are some positional details that can be referenced, but many key players were absent for both teams in that match. That game gave us some understanding of Manchester United, but Manchester United's competitive matches this season are more relevant for reference.

Alvarez has been in average form this season, while Baena has been impressive, which is the opposite of last season

Every player has ups and downs in form; I don't think any player is always in top form—there are always low points. Lookman's current form is not what he or we want to see, but he is working hard every day to regain it. He is good at dribbling, and even if he loses the ball, we need him to keep trying.

Baena's appearances last season were not stable due to injuries. He made it to the World Cup and gained confidence from it. He is currently in excellent form, and we must make the most of each player's best condition to maximize their contribution to the team.

What is the key to Atletico Madrid's recent good form?

Maintaining balance, both defensively and offensively, has always been our advantage. When the whole team works together, good results follow.

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