Diego Simeone has paid tribute to former teammate Fernando Torres, who retired from professional football on Friday.
Simeone played alongside Torres at Atletico Madrid and spoke about the striker during press conference ahead of facing Leganes on Sunday.
The Argentine then coached Torres when the Spanish striker returned to the club following several years playing in the Premier League and Serie A.
"Fernando is very intelligent, an absolute legend of football. He's earned his place in the sport through hard work, commitment and respect for others," Simeone said.
"He's always had a great personality, as a person and player."
Like Simeone, some have suggested that Torres will move into coaching and his former boss is ready to face him in the dugout.
"I imagine he'll take some time to prepare himself and do whatever he wants and respond to his responsibility.
"Let's hope it's not too long because then we could meet each other."