João Neves, Paris Saint-Germain’s 20-year-old midfielder, answered questions from the media on Wednesday ahead of the Champions League final against Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena on May 31 (CET). He spoke in particular about the mental preparation required for such a match.
Neves “it’s impossible to be in a better place.”
How much have you improved this season ?
A lot, I’m a better player since I arrived. There’s a lot of quality here, the coach is incredible and there are facilities to help us. I’m very happy to be here, to have chosen this club and this project. I think it’s impossible to be in a better place.
How are you feeling ahead of the Champions League final ?
As with every match, I’m a bit nervous. Maybe a bit more (smile). But I’m trying to relax, be calm and enjoy it. You never know, this could be my last final. I’m going to do my best.
Neves “We’re confident and happy”.
Which pressure is the hardest to handle – the media, the fans, the club ?
Actually, I don’t feel any pressure. We’ve never won the Champions League, so there’s no pressure. We’re confident right now. Not every player can play in a final. We’re confident and happy, as we are for every game.
What’s the squad like? Is everyone thinking about the Champions League ?
We’re focused on the Coupe de France. As the coach told us, everyone has to choose the best way to be ready for the final. There isn’t one formula. Every player has a way of being ready. I’ll choose my way, to be ready, relaxed at home and as normal as possible.
The most important match of your life ?
As I always say, the most important is always the next one. Right now, it’s the Coupe de France. We’re going to do our best.
