Atletico Madrid defender Marc Pubill says victory over Real Madrid in today’s derby would send a clear message to their LaLiga rivals.
Los Rojiblancos welcome their city rivals to the Estado Metropolitano having avoided defeat in their past five home meetings with Los Blancos in all competitions.
The fixture gives both sides the opportunity to enter the international break positively. Diego Simeone and Jose Mourinho have each suffered one league defeat so far this season.
Pubill, who represents Spain internationally, is prepared for the challenge of facing Kylian Mbappe as Atletico look to extend their strong home record in the derby.
“It’s a special match, but so is every match. It’s three more points on offer,” said Pubill.
“Beating them would be a statement of intent. We’re going to fight for it, I’m sure we will.”
Despite Atletico’s impressive overall recent record against Real Madrid, Pubill has yet to experience victory in the fixture. His only previous derby appearance ended in defeat, when Simeone’s side lost to Real Madrid in the semi-final of the 2025 Spanish Super Cup.