"Atletico have come into their own and established themselves as one of the biggest clubs in Spain," said the winger.
"They are much more competitive, and when you feel you can compete against even the best teams, it works wonders for your confidence.
"Where they differ from us is that they rely more on individuals than the overall team pattern. They are beginning to shape into an effective unit, but it is individual brilliance that has contributed most to their success.
"While they rely on individuals to a great extent, we are a real unit. We have outstanding individuals as well, but, first and foremost, we are a team. You can't underestimate the importance of that, and it has stood us in good stead.
"Atletico are a real threat going forward and have probably the two best strikers in La Liga in Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan.
"They are much stronger at the back now, but I still feel our team spirit can come through and help us beat them."