Ralf Rangnick praises Diego Simeone ahead of Champions League clash

Manchester United interim head coach Ralf Rangnick has said that he is looking forward to facing Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone in the Champions League.

The Red Devils will head to Wanda Metropolitano on Wednesday evening for the first leg of their last-16 clash with the reigning Spanish champions.

Rangnick has said that he is a huge admirer of what Simeone has achieved during his time in charge of the capital giants, and the German is relishing the chance to tackle the 51-year-old for the first time.

"In those 11 years he has won trophies with a clear identity and with a recognisable playing style," Rangnick told reporters during Tuesday's pre-match press conference. "And I don't think this has changed in the last years.

"There is always an emotional side and this also reflects the character of the manager - Diego Simeone is probably one of the most emotional managers in Europe.

"The style and the way that his teams have always performed reflects those emotions that he tries to bring into the team, and this is what it's all about. We need to match the levels of energy and emotions in both games and this is what we have to be aware of.

"I will try to prepare our team, my team, for exactly that kind of challenge. It will be physical, it will be emotional. We have to be mentally strong in both games, even more so when we play away.

"We haven't played against each other as of yet but I have always admired what he has achieved. In 11 years with Atletico, I think he has changed that club completely into one of the most respected clubs in Europe. As I said, I am forwarding to the two games."

Man United will enter Wednesday's contest off the back of a 4-2 win over Leeds United in the Premier League, which saw them strengthen their grip on fourth spot in the table.