Diego Simeone has brushed off suggestions that superstition played a role in Atletico Madrid's last-minute hotel switch ahead of their Champions League semi-final showdown with Arsenal. Instead, the fiery Argentine boss revealed a much simpler reason: "The hotel was cheaper. That's why we changed."

Atletico, currently locked at 1-1 with Arsenal after a tense first leg, are gearing up for Tuesday's decisive clash at the Emirates Stadium. The Spanish side previously stayed at the four-star Marriott Hotel in Regents Park before suffering a humbling 4-0 defeat to Mikel Arteta's men in the league phase back in October. For this crucial encounter, they've relocated across London to the five-star Courthouse Hotel in Shoreditch, sparking rumors that Simeone ordered the move to avoid bad luck.

But the veteran manager, known for his tactical cunning and fiery sideline presence, dismissed those claims with a wry smile. With the tie finely poised, Simeone is focused on the pitch, not the pillows.

All eyes will be on Julian Alvarez, the former Manchester City forward who scored a penalty and impressed in the first leg before limping off. Despite missing Atletico's weekend win over Valencia, the 20-goal Argentine has traveled to London and looks set to start. "Julian Alvarez is important in this game because he knows the English league very well," Simeone said. "He played really well last week, and I hope he can bring what he needs in the game tomorrow."

Simeone also offered a masterclass in big-match psychology: "As coaches, we have to think about what could happen, but it is down to the players. We have to manage our emotions and play as well as possible. The game changes as soon as it kicks off. Over time, you do become patient. It is not about being passive, but calm, and that is what we need in this type of game."

For Antoine Griezmann, who has scored 212 goals in 494 appearances, the stage is set for another memorable European night. Whether it's the hotel or the tactics, Atletico are hoping the change of scenery brings a change of fortune.