Simeone praise is no distraction for striker Balotelli

Milan v Atletico

Mario Balotelli refused to be sidetracked by glowing praise by Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone ahead of the teams’ Champions League showdown.

The Italy striker, a consistent source of tabloid fodder, is in line to take on high-flying Atletico tonight as the Rossoneri adapt to life under new boss Clarence Seedorf.

Speculation is rife that the former Man City front man will be shipped out of the San Siro in the summer to fund new players, although he refused to be drawn into the prospect of a switch to the Vicente Calderon. Balotelli said: “Simeone was a great player and he’s a great coach.

“It’s always an honour when a coach praises you. In this moment, though, I’m with Milan. I cannot say any more than that.”

Balotelli goes on to explain his happiness at working under former Milan midfielder Seedorf.

He told Marca: “I have spoken with him about situations with the team and the things that I must do on the field. I’m happy.

“Seedorf is a great champion and it’s a pleasure to listen to him. He was also a great player. I hope that everything goes well.”

Atletico are mixing it with the established duo Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga and remain in with a great chance of beating their two rivals to the title.

And Balotelli is in no doubt as to the size of the task awaiting his side, including facing opposite number Diego Costa.

“Diego Costa truly seems like a great player but it’s a battle between Milan and Atletico. They’re doing very well in the Spanish championship. They are a great team.”

Simeone refuses to be complacent, though. He said: “Milan are always much stronger in the Champions League than in Serie A. 

“They always do well in Europe traditionally. It’ll be tough. They have many champions and we have to be very humble.” 

The weight of history?

Atletico boss Diego Simeone said he ‘fears’ Milan’s history could count against his team when they go head to head tonight.

He said: “It will be an open game where anything could happen.

“I don’t want to make predictions but this tie will be important ahead of the second leg. 

“I expect to see a great Milan and above all I fear their history, which on nights like this can really count. We’ll be facing a great rival. 

“We do not feel like the favourites and must prove our strength on the field. It won’t be easy, because the Italian teams always make the most of their scoring opportunities.”