New Atletico Madrid signing Emre is convinced they can challenge for the title.

Diego Simeone's men finished fifth last season, 44 points behind their city rivals in first, but they did win 12 consecutive European games on their way to a second Europa League title in three years and Emre is confident they can transform that success onto the domestic front.

He told the club's website: "Madrid and Barcelona are strong, but we are Atleti and we can also be strong.

"We have a coach who doesn't like to lose and tactically we are good. If we work hard we can be at this level."

The Turkey midfielder, who arrived in the Spanish capital three weeks ago, is adjusting to life in Madrid and says his new team-mates have helped him settle.

"Since the day I signed I have been very happy," the 31-year-old added. "I have been here three weeks and I am content.

"There is a good group and we are all friends. Be it big players or small, we all respect each other and my first impressions have been very good."