Mourinho and Simeone renew rivalry in Madrid derby after more than a decade

Jose Mourinho and Diego Simeone, the managers of Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid respectively, are set to face off in their first Madrid derby since 2014. The rivalry between the two managers has been absent for over a decade, as they previously faced each other in a Champions League final and an Atletico match during Mourinho's time at Chelsea.

Speaking ahead of the match, Mourinho emphasized the importance of the derby, noting that it is "always something more special because of the history, the culture of the games and the passion of the fans." He added that while winning is the most important factor, the main priority is to overcome the obstacles that come with such a high-profile fixture.

Atletico, on the other hand, arrived at the match having won their last two games against Real, defeating Real Sociedad and Osasuna. Mourinho's Real Madrid currently sit second in La Liga with 15 points from six games, while Atletico are fourth with 13 points. The Metropolitano Stadium, where the derby will take place, has been a difficult venue for Real Madrid in recent years, with the team winning only two of their past 11 away matches at the venue.

Atletico, led by Simeone, have responded to a run of defeats by winning back-to-back matches against Real Sociedad and Osasuna. Despite the intensity of the derby, both managers have expressed a mutual respect for each other's abilities and history. Simeone praised Mourinho for his experience and respect, while Mourinho acknowledged Simeone's understanding of the occasion.