Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick lavished praise on Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone for developing the Spanish champions into 'one of the most respected' in Europe.
Simeone was appointed as Atletico coach in 2011 and has guided them to two La Liga titles, two Europa League triumphs and two Champions League finals, which they lost on both occasions to city rivals Real in 2014 and 2016.
Atletico secured their second championship last season but are currently fifth in La Liga and 15 points adrift of leaders Real, having lost at home last week to basement club Levante.
Despite Atletico's struggles this season, Rangnick spoke effusively about their identity under Simeone on the eve of United's first European Cup meeting with Atletico. "In those 11 years, he won trophies with a clear identity, with a recognisable playing style and I don't think this has changed in the last years," Rangnick said. "It's always an emotional side and this reflects the character of the manager.
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