Wednesday, the bastardDr The third day of the group stage of the 2022-2023 UEFA Champions LeagueParis Saint-Germain (1 in Ligue 1) He will face Benfica (first in the Portuguese League) at the Estadio da Luz (Kick off at 9 pm, broadcast on Channel + And the RMC Sports). On the eve of this meeting, Danilo Pereira was at a press conference. The 31-year-old Parisian midfielder/defender spoke about the opponent’s qualities, the big atmosphere to expect, his place at PSG and especially in defense at 3, as well as the Portuguese from PSG.
Danilo “A strong relationship offensively and defensively.”
What are Benfica’s strengths?
I think Benfica’s strengths lie in the group, with a strong offensive and defensive link. We’ve seen that since the start of the season. There are also individual qualities that can make a difference on the pitch. There is a good mix between youth and experience, it helps the dynamism.
Renato Sanchez disappointed?
I know Renato really wanted to be here. It was a match he was looking forward to, and unfortunately he can’t be with us.
Great ambiance to expect?
During the five years that I played in Porto, it was always difficult to play here. It is a stadium with 65,000 spectators, it is a warm atmosphere and very suitable for Benfica. It will be hot. It’s up to us to play a big game here to get the three points back.
Danilo “I enjoy playing and that is the most important thing for me.”
Difficult to start at PSG this season?
I think it’s always difficult to start at a team like PSG. We have a lot of great players. The coach trusts me in defense and in the middle. I feel good, I enjoy playing and that is the most important thing for me.
Some form of revenge against Benfica after he trained there without playing as a pro?
Not at all (smile). The club has brought me so much and given me the opportunity to be here today. Revenge is not the right word.
Danilo “I have no preference.”
Tuchel criticized for putting you on the defence? Do you enjoy this position? Which one is more comfortable in defense?
When I got to Paris, it was a little difficult because at first I played in the middle, then I played in the center of defence. The question is to have Marquinhos in the middle and I’m in defence, the fact that I was a defender wasn’t the issue.
In defense at 3, I played the three positions and I have no preference. I enjoy playing a lot and that’s what I want. There is no specific position (smile).
The atmosphere between the Portuguese in Paris Saint-Germain? Your contribution to the group?
I think the Portuguese are happy of course. So it is easier to integrate into the group. We like to work hard, so it’s easier to have any coach. These are the main features.
Danilo: “The Portuguese League is not to be underestimated. »
There is often a feeling that French clubs are the favorites against Portuguese clubs, when the statistics do not go in this direction? France looking down?
We have to change the stats tomorrow (smile). I think the Portuguese league is underestimated. There are teams that have a lot of qualities. There are great matches in Europe.
