Atletico Madrid lost their opening fixture 2-1 against Liverpool at Anfield and now need a response at the Metropolitano if they are to put themselves in a strong position to reach the competition’s last 16 automatically.
Álvarez has not scored since the Champions League semi-finals, but Simeone believes the Argentine’s contribution should not be judged solely by his finishing.
“Strikers of Julián’s characteristics always need goals, not just him. Beyond his finishing, he is a team player who can link up, combine and offer many more tools than goals,” the Atlético coach said.
“He had a very good second half the other day and hopefully he can keep growing to reach the level we all want to see from him.”
Simeone expects a demanding contest against a United side whose pressing and pace can cause problems even when results have been inconsistent.
“We interpret the match we needed to play against Alavés very well, and now we face an opponent who presses high in your half, takes time away from you with their first press and has quick players,” he said.
“Beyond the results, where they have had many draws, they produce the kind of football they showed last year. They are a strong team, but we have to take the game where we believe we can hurt them.”
Atlético cannot afford to overlook the importance of the fixture after losing in England. Simeone said the league-phase format leaves teams needing points regardless of whether they are playing at home or away.
“We know how difficult this competition is. This format forces you to try to collect points, at home or away, in the first match or the last. We need points, like every team that wants to continue in the competition.”
Asked about the Champions League final being scheduled for the Metropolitano, Simeone refused to look beyond the immediate task.
“I understand your position on the final being at the Metropolitano, but we have to deal with reality: day by day, match by match. Let's not feed situations about what might happen if we reach the final. We are strong when we focus on the present.”
Simeone also highlighted the importance of balance between defence and attack during Atlético’s recent improvement. He acknowledged that Ademola Lookman was not yet at his best, while Álex Baena had found confidence after an injury-disrupted period.
The coach’s priority now is to manage his squad’s energy for a match he expects to be long and physically demanding. With Atlético needing to recover from their opening defeat, he wants his players to be more clinical and prevent United from gaining momentum.