Giménez: “There is a great squad and it's time to make a great team”

José María Giménez, Atlético defender, was the footballer in charge of attending the media in the previous match against Porto. The center-back will return to the eleven after resting against Espanyol and, in addition, before the difficulties due to Savic's loss.

Can this squad compete with anyone in the Champions League?

The arrival of Antoine obviously strengthens the group, it makes the competition between us grow and thus the individual competition to try much more. We have a great squad, the facts will show if we are at the height of all the teams or not.

How is the fact of being able to go from eleven to be out in the dressing room managed?

First, putting the team first. There are many games ahead and all teammates are important and whoever gets it to be prepared to grab the door and try not to let go of it anymore. We have to grow and for this we have to all be well. Putting the group ahead and contributing the maximum from our touch, will make us grow together and that we can achieve important things.

You are one of the veterans, but the Champions League is missing. Is it the great challenge?

Competition that put us ahead, competition that we want to win, compete and go as far as possible. That is what we prepare for. How the group responds will define whether we are to win it or not.

How do you manage to be viewed as favorites?

We have a great squad, it is true, with many names, but with these names we have to make a great group, a team and that it is above the names. That will define if we are favorites and win things or not.

Champions again with the fans …

It was incredible in the league with the fans, I can't imagine tomorrow… People know we need them and in this game they will be player number 12.

What do you expect from Porto?

Porto had a great Champions League last year. He has a great team, we know it will be a difficult game, like everyone else in this competition, especially in the debut. Every point will be important, especially playing at home. We have to play our game and go for the three points.

Savic will not be …

Stefan is very important, a leader in the group and we need him in every game. But the squad is complete and whoever plays will do so in the best possible way.