Atletico Madrid coach, Diego Simeone, has hailed Manchester United target Angel Di Maria as Real Madrid’s best player.

Di Maria came off the bench with just 12 minutes remaining and immediately proved to be the game-changer in Atletico’s 1-1 with their city rivals, while Cristiano Ronaldo was subbed at half-time and Gareth Bale struggle to influence the game.

"The game changed with Di Maria. It's logical - he's the best player they have,” Simeone told reporters after the game.

"He's the player most likely to create openings in the opposition half."

The Argentine is still heavily linked with a move to Manchester United and Carlo Ancelotti recently confirmed he doesn’t know whether the 26-year-old will stay.

However, Madrid's lead through James Rodriguez just one after Di Maria entered the field lasted just six minutes, as Raul Garcia levelled from a corner late in the game.

"Thanks to the goal we have a 50 per cent chance in the home game on Friday," Simeone added.

"It's 50-50 because Madrid always score goals and thinking about a 0-0 draw won't be good.

"We set up the game to play to our characteristics and the match was more how we wanted it than how they wanted it."

Atletico will host Real in the return leg of the Spanish Supercopa on Friday.

Do you agree that Angel Di Maria is Real Madrid’s best player? Have your say in the comment section below.