Speaking with FIFA, Koke insists there's exciting times ahead given his young teammates now establishing themselves.
He said: "We have been competing for many years with people like Jan Oblak, Antoine (Griezmann), Álvaro Morata...very important people. And there is also a batch coming with Pablo Barrios, Riquelme, Samu Lino, the now signing of Arthur Vermeeren.
"Young people, fresh people and with a lot of enthusiasm. We have become accustomed to seeing ourselves and being idols of many people, but I also hope that this new generation can follow our path and can be world stars like many of my colleagues are."
On his relationship with coac Diego Simeone, Koke continued: "The truth is, yes. We have known each other for many years and practically by looking at each other we know what we want from each other. We have always marked that line of player and coach, which is important to continue having this relationship for many years.
"It means that tomorrow I can go to lunch with my coach or even today, but we have always drawn that line, which is important for the group and the coaching staff. With a glance we more or less understand each other, we know what we mean.
"We want from each other and what the team needs. We have gone through very bad times, hard times and we have had moments of great joy. And that is what gives you that unity and that strength in a group."