The Argentine has earned the respect of the Real Madrid captain, who expects a tough clash against Atletico in their showdown in Milan

Real Madrid defender Sergio Ramos is prepared for an uncomfortable Champions League final against Atletico Madrid and their coach Diego Simeone, for whom he has "special affection".

Madrid closed out a 1-0 win over Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabeu on Wednesday to join their local rivals in the final in Milan later this month.

Simeone - who has led los Rojiblancos to their second Champions League final in three years - had previously stated he would be happy to have Spain centre-back Ramos in his defensively obdurate team

And the 30-year-old has revealed the admiration is mutual, telling reporters: "I am happy to say I wish the best to El Cholo [Simeone], who wants a Ramos in his team.

"In the end, we are rivals but I have a special affection for him."

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