Jackson Martinez: 'Atletico Madrid can challenge Barcelona, Real Madrid'

By Shane Callaghan, Reporter | 26 July 2015

Jackson Martinez says that his new club Atletico Madrid can compete with Barcelona and Real Madrid for the country's best trophies.

Atletico Madrid new boy Jackson Martinez has claimed that the Rojiblancos have enough quality to challenge Barcelona and Real Madrid for La Liga this season.

The Colombian striker completed a £24m move to the Spanish capital from Porto earlier this month, and believes that his first campaign can be a fruitful one.

Diego Simeone's side ended the status quo in Spain's top flight in 2014 by edging out the Catalans to clinch the Liga title - the first time since 2004 that it was won by anybody outside Barca or Real.

The Blaugrana and their El Clasico rivals finished in the top two places last time around, but Martinez, who was unveiled on Sunday, is optimistic that he can help upset the big boys once more.

"[Lionel] Messi & [Cristiano] Ronaldo make the difference in La Liga but we can compete with Barcelona and Real Madrid," he told reporters.

"I feel like I have joined a very committed side, one that is ambitious and demanding, and has a great coach. Atletico Madrid have done a great job in recent years and I just want to give my best and be happy.

I want to repay all of the confidence that has been placed in me by the board, the coach and my teammates. I know what Atletico Madrid are about and I want to do my best. Goals will come for me through team work. Atletico are a winning team."

Along with the Liga, Barcelona also won the Copa del Rey and Champions League last season.