“At PSG there is such passion for the Champions League that obsession is bordering on”

The Argentine coach, Mauricio PochettinoIt is clear that a good part of the season is played in the Champions League tie against FC Barcelona. “In Paris there is an inordinate passion to win this cup,” he acknowledged.

With what responsibility do you face this tie?

Special match. From the first day I signed with PSG 40 days ago, I have already noticed that this match is very important for PSG. We understand the responsibility and the excitement of the people to win this match and the tie.

They are ready?

Always. There is no coach who says that his team is not prepared, but another thing is that the situation is what it is.

Do you notice nerves among your players?

I see the group very calm. History is history. What happened in the past is there, it cannot be erased. We have to build a better future. That is our goal.

How is Verratti?

We have to go step by step. We will see it in training and then we have to make a decision.

Will Mbappé be key without Neymar and Di Maria?

I always hope that great players fulfill their role. Absences are important, but I am sure that whoever leaves will do very well.

What is the PSG dressing room like?

I have found a fantastic group, with an incredible open mind. With an idea of ​​building an identity together. It is not about imposing our ideas or what we believe but creating a unique identity. They are players and they are friends, they like to train and compete. We are happy with the human acceptance they have had with us. We are here to collaborate and not to impose.

Have you seen Barcelona very changed in recent months?

Projects take time to adjust to the new coach. With seven months, Koeman has evolved, beyond injuries and covid19. Koeman has had time and now they look more solid. I'm not surprised.

What does it mean for PSG to play against Barça?

In this sport we talk about passion but we are already obsessed. We love this sport so much that we are 24 hours thinking about this sport. It is positive obsession. There is so much passion that it overflows everywhere. It is an inordinate passion to win the Champions League here. We adapt quickly and we know the difficulties, but we are very motivated. Barça also aspires to win the Champions League. He has great champions and a great coach. I admired him as a player and now as a coach.