Diego Simeone: Atletico 'won't underestimate' Tottenham in Champions League encounter

This, even though Atletico sit third in La Liga and Spurs are fighting relegation in the Premier League.

Speaking in Madrid, Simeone insisted that labels don't matter once players step onto the pitch. "I don't know what it's related to," he said when asked about Atletico being favourites. "Just like every other match, when you step onto the pitch, you don't remember where you are in the standings or what stage you're at."

Tottenham arrive in Spain with serious problems in the league, having gone many games without a win and with a long list of injuries. Several key Spurs players, including James Maddison, Wilson Odobert and Lucas Bergvall, are unavailable for the trip to the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium.

Simeone also spoke about the qualities he sees in Tottenham and their interim head coach, Igor Tudor. He pointed out that Spurs finished fourth in the group stage of the Champions League, a fact he used to underline that his side should not be complacent. "If you relate it to them finishing fourth in the Champions League, then we're not favourites," Simeone said.

The Argentine coach also talked about the speed of Premier League football, saying English teams play with a faster pace than in Spain, and stressed that Atletico must match that intensity. "(English teams) have a faster pace. When you watch it on television, you can see that the speed is faster," he added.

A subplot to the tie is the return of Conor Gallagher, who left Atletico for Tottenham in January and now faces his former club. Simeone praised Gallagher's attitude and work ethic, saying the midfielder can play in different positions and left with "very fond memories" in Madrid.

Tottenham boss Igor Tudor has said his priority remains keeping Spurs in the Premier League, but hopes that a strong showing in Europe can build confidence. With key defenders like Cristian Romero and Djed Spence available again, Spurs will try to stay competitive in the first leg.

Tuesday's tie kicks off a crucial week for both sides, with Atletico seeking to take a lead in Europe and Spurs aiming to find form on two fronts.

READ MORE: Raffaele Palladino: Atalanta ready for "magical" Champions League night vs Bayern