Simeone: I still think Barcelona are the best team in the world Atletico Madrid Discussed mouthwatering Saturday night clash

Barcelona have been hailed as the world's best side by Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone, ahead of the meeting between the sides on Saturday night.

The clash at the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano will see top spot in LaLiga Santander up for grabs.

Heading into the clash, a single point currently separates table toppers Barcelona and the Rojiblancos, with Sevilla sandwiched between them in second, although injuries have been an issue for the home side.

"I consider Barcelona to be the best team in the world in recent years, despite not having that consistency in Europe," he told reporters.

"We know they are dangerous and whether they play [Philippe] Coutinho or Malcom, they will have speed and multiple dangerous players.

"We have tried to avoid injuries and for this game, we will only have three absences. We know how important the game is."

Simeone also touched on the possibility of two important contract renewals at the club, one for goalkeeper Jan Oblak and the other for himself.

"The club are working with Oblak to try to have him continue with us," he added.

"We need him and it is very important for the present and future of our club that he stays here.

"I have also spoken with Gil Marin myself [about a renewal], but we haven't finalised anything yet."