Brazilian defender Juan Jesus spoke exclusively to Inter Channel about the importance of making a strong start in Inter’s Europa League debut in Iceland.
JJ, we’re almost ready for our first competitive outing of the season now against a side that the media is depicting as easy opponents. But I know the team is totally focused going into this game, and paying attention to all the details.
“Yes, we know how important this match is. We’re doing everything properly, staying focused in training so that we can go there ready to put in a top performance.”
The weather is a bit different: from the 38 degrees in Thessaloniki to a temperature that’s perhaps better suited to playing football, around 10 or 12 degrees.
“Yes, it’s like in Brazil when you play in Porto Alegre in Winter. You go from 10 degrees there to 30 in Rio de Janeiro. I think it’s better because everyone finds it harder to run in the heat. It’s easier to run when it’s cooler.”
It’s a two-legged tie but it’s important to get off on the the right foot in Iceland.
“Yes, we need to produce a big performance up there and score as many as we can so that we’re more relaxed going back to San Siro. We need to play really well and I think the coach is preparing everything properly to make sure we can go there and get the win.”
Ranocchia, Vidic and JJ: a defensive trio that’s showing greater togetherness and understanding.
“Yes, I think we’re doing well together. Apart from that game in Frankfurt which I think we can forget about. But we’re definitely working well in training and improving as we play together.I think we’ll be able to give the fans lots to cheer about.”
Source: inter.it
