Alejandro Grimaldo has declared that Atletico Madrid "have to stop making excuses" as they prepare to kick off their LaLiga campaign against newly-promoted Malaga next week.

The left-back made his Atletico debut in a 2-1 comeback victory over Marseille in their final pre-season friendly at the Orange Velodrome on Friday. Igor Paixao had given the hosts an early lead before Rodrigo Mendoza and Carlos Martin struck either side of half-time to secure the win for Diego Simeone's side.

Some Atletico players, including Grimaldo, have returned late to pre-season preparations due to their participation in the World Cup, but the 29-year-old insists that is no excuse for a slow start.

"That's football. But we have to stop making excuses," Grimaldo said. "We know some players were in the World Cup final, but we have to be in top form for Wednesday's match. We have to achieve that, and we're ready."

Reflecting on his first appearance in the red and white stripes, Grimaldo added: "I felt good, I was eager to play with my teammates. Some of us have only recently arrived and the match was important to get into rhythm. We're a very strong team, a team with very good players and quality. But above all, the group is very united, and that's very important for such a long season."

Goalscorer Rodrigo Mendoza, who netted his first goal for the club, echoed the positive sentiment. "Personally, I'm very happy with my first goal. My intention is to help the team win. This match gives us confidence and strength to start the league on Wednesday," he said.

Atletico Madrid will host Malaga in their season opener before facing Villarreal at home just four days later. Julian Alvarez is yet to return to the squad following the World Cup, though Simeone's squad could be bolstered by the potential signing of Cristian Romero, who has announced his departure from Tottenham.