Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago has claimed that it is "no coincidence" that Atletico Madrid have reached the semi-finals of the Champions League once again.
Atletico were seen as the underdogs in their quarter-final with Spanish rivals Barcelona, but Diego Simeone's side progressed over the two legs to set up a last-four clash with Bayern, with the first leg to take place at the Vicente Calderon on Wednesday.
Thiago has insisted that Bayern will not underestimate Atletico, who are bidding to make their second Champions League final in three years.
"We know the difficulty of playing against Atleti. They deserve recognition for the defence they have, the block they are and the history they've made these last few years. It's no coincidence they're up there," Thiago told AS.
"They've incorporated Saul Niguez, who has found his place in the team, and Augusto Fernandez, who was at Celta Vigo. They've had some injuries in defence and have overcome them very well with home-grown players such as Lucas Hernandez. Even with the absences they've been fantastic."
Thiago, 25, joined Bayern from Atletico's league rivals Barcelona in 2013.
Matt Law
