Hong Kong tour ‘big step forward’ for European giants Atletico Madrid, says Diego Simeone
- Three-time Uefa Europa League winners faced Kitchee on Wednesday as part of their preparations for the new season
Diego Simeone said travelling to Hong Kong for preseason was a “big step forward for Atletico Madrid” that could help the club grow.
The La Liga giants faced Kitchee on Wednesday as part of their preparations for the new season and ran out comfortable 6-1 winners at Hong Kong Stadium.
Atletico, who as part of their tour donated HK$1 million (US$128,000) towards football development in Hong Kong, are the first elite European side to play a match in the city since Manchester City in 2019.
And team manager Simeone played up the significance of the visit for the three-time Uefa Europa League winners.
“This is a big step forward for Atletico Madrid, to grow the club,” he told reporters. “This match is an important part of our preparation for the season.”
The 2024-25 campaign, particularly in Europe, has caused concern among elite players because of its intensity and packed schedule, with suggestions players’ unions may even be forced to take legal action.
