Hancko dreams of a Champions League final at his stadium

“Playing the Champions League final in our stadium would be incredible,” David Hancko said. The Atlético de Madrid defender was speaking before his team’s match against Manchester United on Tuesday, October 13, in the second round of the Champions League league phase.

The ambition is clear, but Hancko stressed that the final is still a long way off. “Last year we came very close to reaching the final. It would be very good to get there this year,” he said, while urging patience and points in the league phase. Thinking about a final can, in his view, provide confidence, without obscuring the distance still to travel.

The defender also emphasised the importance of the opening games for his team, which lost its first Champions League match. He welcomed the weekend win, even with several players rested, and was pleased that Pablo Barrios was fit. “We have the whole squad available,” he said. The first four fixtures are “very important” in his assessment, particularly those played at their stadium.

Asked about Manchester United, Hancko acknowledged the quality and physical strength of the opposition, while saying the team had not made a good start to the season. He referred to the many players missing from both sides in their previous meeting because of the World Cup, and expects this match to be different. Atlético’s priority, he said, will be to stay focused defensively and take their chances. “We approach this as if it were a knockout match because we need the points,” he said.

Hancko also considers his team stronger than last season, particularly in the depth of the squad. He praised the defensive contribution of Cuti and Grimaldo, as well as Alejandro’s attacking qualities on the flank. He said his partnership with Cuti works well: Cuti likes to step out for long balls, while Hancko prefers to hold his position.

The defender also noted that Manchester United finished near the top of the Premier League last season. He stopped short of calling them favourites, but described them as a top team with quality players. The prospect of a final at home remains a dream; for now, Hancko’s focus is on the immediate match and the points at stake.