There's mind games, and then there's delusion - Gareth Bale has certainly raised the stakes (as if they could't get any higher) ahead of tomorrow's Champion's league final with his somewhat bizarre claim that not a single member of the current Atletico Madrid side would feature in the Real Madrid team.
For me, no Atletico player would feature in Real Madrid's team. Real Madrid are better in all positions.
While it's true Atletico Madrid certainly aren't a team of superstars like their city rivals - the once (relative) whipping boys of the Spanish capital have only lost 1 in their last 10 clashes with the white of Real Madrid. And in that regard, Bale's comments are likely to do nothing other than spur Simeone's charges on ahead of the Champions League final in Milan on Saturday night.
We decided to take a look Bale's claim, and some up with as balanced a starting XI as we could and, in-fact, there was no place for Bale in the team. Atletico outnumber their rivals 6-5 and that was being nice to Real, particularly in midfield where Koke and Saul are very unlucky to miss out.
Goalkeeper
Jan Oblak:
The Atletico Madrid conveyor belt of top-class goalkeepers has yielded yet another superstar. The 23-year-old Slovenian was drafted in to play backup Miguel Moya - but an injury to the Spaniard saw Oblak given his chance, and he has now established himself as their first-choice keeper.
With 8 clean sheets in 12 champions league games, and La Liga record high of 18 clean sheets in a single season - the impressive shot-stopper is showing why he's so highly rated. While Real also possess a capable net-minder in Keylor Navas, the Slovenian Oblak takes the spot.
Defenders(4):
Juanfran:
Put simply, defensively he is a better defender than the Real Madrid alternative. He edges Daniel Carvajal to the position on the Spanish national squad also. Dani Carvajal can console himself with some more Kerry championship action.
Diego Godin:
Gabi might be the team captain, but you can't play down this man's influence on the pitch. A natural leader on the field, and is bizarrely always overlooked when the conversation of the world's best defenders arises. Perhaps he doesn't have the ball-playing abilities of Sergio Ramos, but the 30-year-old's role in Atletico's run to the final cannot be downplayed.
Sergio Ramos:
The only member of the Real Madrid defence in this side, a testament to the how strong Atletico are at the back. It could have been very different for Ramos, after trying to orchestrate a move away from the Bernbeau last summer - but the Spaniard is strong both with and without the ball, and always has a big goal in him. A token Real inclusion perhaps but one that was just about deserved.
Felipe Luis:
What a season the Brazilian has had - after finding himself in the wilderness during his failed spell at Chelsea, he has been rejuvenated by his move back to Spain. Easily one of Atletico's best performers this season.
Midfield (3)
Gabi:
If there's one man who epitomises the spirit and heart of Atletico Madrid, look no further than their inspirational captain Gabi.
A warrior in midfield that allows the more attacking minded players to get forwards, and do what they do best. The type of player that every side craves.
Luka Modric:
One of the few Real Madrid players who can make a difference from a deeper position, the Croatian oozes class on the ball. Has been given more freedom in the bigger games, protected by the more defensive-minded Casemiro.
Toni Kroos:
If Casemiro is the defensive shield, and Modric is the more attacking-minded playmaker - Toni Kroos is that perfect link between attack and defence. Efficient in possession, and rarely surrenders the ball - he's keeps this Real Madrid side ticking.
Forwards (3):
Cristiano Ronaldo:
What is there to say about this man that hasn't already been said? One goal shy of breaking the record number of Champions League goals in a season (17), a record he set himself last season.
Probably the first name on the sheet, and if he's fit - he will be a game changer.
Karim Benzema:
He may not be included in the French European championship squad, but 28 goals in 35 appearances this season is an impressive feat. He seems to be always in the news for all the reasons, and that's partially why he wasn't included in Didier Deschamps's squad. That being said, he's a game-changer - good in the air, holds up play well and is a prolific goalscorer.
Antoine Griezmann:
32 goals is an impressive return for the 25-year-old, and it's no wonder a number of clubs are reportedly lining up a big-money offer this summer. Griezmann has shown his versatility this season, with his ability to play essentially anywhere. He scored the crucial away goal in Munich that secured his side's spot in the final, and he will be key if Atletico are to go on and win.
Combined Real/Atletico XI:
It felt wrong to leave out Koke and Saul but if there's any other egregious omissions then make sure to let us know.
