After a disappointing draw against Atletico Madrid in La Liga last weekend, Real Madrid are set to return to action tonight for the second UEFA Champions League encounter this season against Lille.
As is customary for Champions League matches, a Real Madrid player addressed the press conference before Carlo Ancelotti took the microphone. This time, it was the midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni who did these honours as he spoke to the press in his native country of France.
As MARCA has reported, the Real Madrid midfielder warned his Merengue teammates about the threat that Lille can pose in this game, especially identifying two of their biggest weapons:
“I’ve played many matches against Lille. They play very well and have good players, like the goalkeeper and their forward Jonathan David. We have to give it our all and fight to the maximum to win this match because it will be difficult.”
“It’s an honor to play against Lille, and I love wearing the shirt of the biggest team in the world.”
The Frenchman also highlighted the role of Ancelotti in this team, and shared his feeling on playing under the Italian tactician:
“It’s very important for me. We always talk about what I need to do. We have to do things well. It’s a pleasure to work with him because he helps me a lot.”
Talking about his responsibilities as a member of the Real Madrid team, Tchouameni made it quite clear that the good of the collective comes before his own individual glory:
“Sometimes we have to understand our responsibility and do what’s best for the team. Sometimes it’s not what’s best for me, but what’s important is to help the team. If you play for Real Madrid, it’s because you have qualities. There are no gifts here.”
The Frenchman also provided an update on the situation of his foot, which had kept him out of action for several weeks last season:
“I feel better. Last year I had problems with my left foot, but with the doctors, we did an amazing job, and I have no pain. I’m going to try to help my team.”
Playing at the pivot of the midfield, Tchouameni is one of the most important players in this Real Madrid squad. He has had some mixed performances this season up to now, but hopefully, he will get back to his best in the coming days to help his team win some more trophies this season.