Trippier backs Simeone influence at Atletico to take his defensive game to “the next level”

Kieran Trippier is backing Diego Simeone to take his defensive game to the “next level” after joining Atletico Madrid this summer.

The 28-year-old right-back swapped Tottenham Hotspur for the Spanish capital after the Rojiblancos paid £20m for his services.

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Since joining he’s an been ever-present having started and finished Atlético’s opening three games, which included a match-winning assist on his debut against Getafe at home.

There were a few eyebrows raised when Trippier made the switch, though a couple of top European sides were reportedly keeping tabs on him, including Juventus who he will face in the Champions League group stages.

For the former Man City academy graduate it was a logical move; he was no longer guaranteed a regular starting berth under Mauricio Pochettino and joining Atleti, managed by the charismatic Diego Simeone, was an opportunity for him to further develop as a footballer.

Trippier, who is keen to add to his 16 senior England caps but faces stiff competition from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, feels Simeone has the capability to improve him.

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“He’s unbelievable,” he told AFP.

“The passion he has – in games you see him celebrating tackles like goals – it gives you such a lift.

“You can see over the years how strong Atletico have been, his teams have always looked like a family and I feel that now.

“It all comes from Cholo. I think he can take me to the next level. For a defender I don’t think there’s a better place in the world to be.”

How has Trippier started for Atletico? Five key things to know…

• Trippier ended a four-year association with Spurs when he joined Atlético Madrid for £20m in the summer.
• He has since gone on to feature in their opening three La Liga outings.
• Trippier produced a match-winning assist on debut against Getafe at home (1-0).
• The former Man City academy graduate believes manager Diego Simeone can take him to the next level.
• He’s hoping to be England’s first choice right-back but faces competition from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.