Simeone Praises Kane After Ballon d'Or Win
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone lauded Harry Kane's Ballon d'Or success ahead of his side's Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.
Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Soccer
Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone praised Harry Kane after the striker won the Ballon d'Or. Simeone said Kane has found his best form without losing his eye for goal, as Atletico prepare to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday.
Why it matters
Atletico arrive in form, having won eight of their last nine matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 LaLiga derby win over Real Madrid. Their Champions League position is less secure, sitting 16th with four points from three matches.
Atletico Madrid have won eight of their last nine matches in all competitions, including a 2-1 LaLiga derby win over Real Madrid. In the Champions League they hold four points from three matches and sit 16th, while Bayern Munich are 14th.
The players
Diego Simeone
Atletico Madrid's long-serving manager, known for his defensive organisation and intense style on the touchline.
Harry Kane
England and Bayern Munich striker who won the Ballon d'Or and is widely regarded as one of the world's leading goalscorers.
The details
Simeone's comments came as Kane's Ballon d'Or win drew attention to his form at club level. Atletico host Bayern Munich at the Metropolitano in Madrid on Tuesday, with Bayern arriving after successive draws in the competition.
Timeline
Tuesday: Atletico Madrid host Bayern Munich in the Champions League at the Metropolitano.
Season Trajectory
Atletico's domestic momentum contrasts with a Champions League start that leaves them 16th, so Tuesday's match against Bayern Munich carries weight for their European campaign. Bayern's 14th-place position means both sides are looking to climb the standings.
Atletico's position of 16th in the Champions League means a result against Bayern Munich on Tuesday could materially shift their chances of advancing. Fantasy and betting followers should note Atletico's recent run of eight wins in nine matches.
The takeaway
Atletico's strong domestic form has not yet translated into Champions League points, making the Bayern Munich match a key test of their European ambitions.
What happens next
Atletico Madrid face Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday at the Metropolitano.
Further reading
For more on the club and competition shaping this week's fixture, see our Soccer coverage.
