"The next game is always the most important"

De Paul spoke to the media on Monday ahead of Tuesday's first leg of the Champions League last-16 tie between Real Madrid and Atletico. The Argentinian midfielder sees the group as strong and mentally prepared for everything that could happen in what will be a long series.

"I see the team well, with enthusiasm and a desire to play this type of match. We know what we're up against. There is still a long way to go and the evaluations are made at the end, but I feel good. The loss of Bellingham is important, but this is a team with hierarchy. It's going to be a tough tie and we have to be ready," said De Paul.

He took the pressure off the group: "I always believe that the next game is the most important. The next one is always the most important challenge. Wednesday will be the most important game at the weekend. The analysis is that we face Madrid at the Bernabeu. They are the European champions and we are both going to compete. When the game starts, there will be nothing else to do but do your best for your team".

"I've always felt important. No role is more important than another, I take on what I have to do and I love being demanded of me. I can give a lot more and the only way to do that is by working. The wear and tear? It has nothing to do with what is said externally, but with the fact that we are going to face a great rival, which are games that we love to play, but that wear us down", he concluded.