Diego Simeone has moved to clarify his handshake snub of Jurgen Klopp after Liverpool's 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid, claiming he "doesn't like the falseness".
The Atletico Madrid boss declined the opportunity to shake hands with his Liverpool counterpart at full-time of the Reds' win in the Spanish capital a fortnight ago.
Klopp admitted he was unimpressed by Simeone's decision at the time, but the Los Rojiblancos coach said that he does not view the post-match pleasantry in the same way it is seen in English football.
"I've already explained myself after the first match," Simeone said.
"I don't like the handshake greetings after the match as they are the emotions of two different sides in different emotional minds.
"So I don't like that greeting after the match.
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"I know in the UK it is a custom and all about chivalry, but I don't share it and I don't like the falseness. So I behave as I feel.
"I don't know Klopp as a person, but he is a great coach and has been great everywhere he has been.
"I don't give an opinion on other teams, we are coaches and we all have to respect that."
Simeone, who returns to Anfield for the first time since March 2020 on Wednesday night, says he is not out for revenge for that Group B defeat at the Wanda Metropolitano.
He added: "It's two clubs that want to grow globally, so it's normal that it's considered to be a great match.
"But in football we don't get back at them, there is no feeling around that. It doesn't exist.
"There is no desire to get one back on Liverpool and there is no thinking about the match over a year ago, even if that will stay in the memory of Atletico fans.
"I think as coaches we always have a great influence in the match and matches like this tomorrow, the clarity and strength is what could change the result.
"In the last match here in Madrid, at the Wanda, Klopp changed (Jordan) Henderson for Fabinho at half-time at the lower part of the midfield.
"That changed the format of the second half after the 2-2 in the first half, so I think the coaches are always looking to improve the team beyond the individual talent of each player.
"The three matches we have left are important and everything is still open. Anything can happen and in football everything changes.
"You are maybe third now and first in three weeks' time, so nothing is guaranteed and everyone will have to be at their best in the next three matches."
