Saul: A cycle of players has ended, but the new ones are excited to learn LaLiga Spoke ahead of Madrid derby

Saul Niguez is excited to begin a new era at Atletico Madrid with plenty of fresh faces.

The likes of Joao Felix, Marcos Llorente, Mario Hermoso and Kieran Trippier have all been brought in this summer after the departures of Antoine Griezmann, Diego Godin, Juanfran and Filipe Luis.

"A cycle of players has come to an end. The new ones are coming excited to learn," Saul said ahead of Friday night's Madrid derby in New Jersey.

"It's always down to [Diego Simeone]'s methods, but the ambition and commitment of the players will bear fruit.

"We talk about the best squad every year, but results talk. Names don't matter, it's about the results at the end of the season."

Angel Correa is a player that has been heavily tipped to leave Los Rojiblancos this summer, and Saul admits that his future isn't in their hands.

"He handles himself well in the dressing room," he said about Correa.

"He's a much-loved guy. He trains well. What happens isn't up to us.

"He's excited like always, I can't say much more."

This will be the first Madrid derby to be played outside of Europe as Atletico and Real Madrid face off at the MetLife Stadium, the home of the New York Giants and New York Jets.

"It's always a special game," Saul said.

"It's the first one to be played outside of Europe.

"We're excited to compete. We're facing them with lots of excitement and eagerness.

"There's always rivalry with Real Madrid.

"It's a derby and it's important.

"We need to prepare ourselves for the start of the season, but you have to prepare yourself specially to face Real Madrid."

Los Blancos will be without Marco Asensio, who has been ruled out for up to nine months with a cruciate ligament injury. Saul admitted that he hasn't had the chance to speak to his friend.

"I haven't spoken to him, he will be focussed on his own issue. I wish him a speedy recovery," he said.

"We'll see if I'm lucky enough to see him and wish him luck and support."