Griezmann: “The criticisms of me in Barcelona were sometimes exaggerated”

Antoine Griezmann has been the great protagonist in L’Equipe this Wednesday. The Barcelona forward has given an interview to the prestigious French newspaper in which he has reviewed his feelings before the European Championship that starts on Friday, in addition to his short-term ambitions.

“I feel in top shape, despite the fatigue we had during the previous preparation. Despite not having played much at the beginning of the season, I think I have finished very strong in recent months. I arrive less tired than in 2018 or even than in 2016. From my point of view, I am happy. We have done a little good preparation. Physically I am better than in previous years ”, highlighted Griezmann when asked about his current condition.

The thorn in the final of the Euro 2016: “The final of the 2016 European Championship is still in my head. They are important defeats, like the Champions League, which makes you feel bad. This makes you want to have a good European Championship more”.

If today's France is better than 2018: “On paper, yes. Mentally, we will have to wait for the games to see it. The point of view of group life in 2018 was exceptional. It is what made us win games in the important moments. We will see if in this edition, during difficult times, we will be able to respond in kind. “

The return of Karim Benzema: “Like everyone else, I noticed Benzema's return when Deschamps announced the call. I was obviously surprised, but above all I was happy. Frankly, we can only be delighted to have him back. We have to do our best to that he feels his best, as quickly as possible and that he has this confidence. He is a person with whom we can easily play and is obviously welcome among us. “

If giving Benzema the penalty against Wales was to facilitate their integration: “Yes, I said it before the game, that if there was a penalty, Benzema would shoot it. I know first-hand how important it is to score a first goal. I know these situations. And we always have the need to score this first goal. There is a penalty for the Euro Cup, it will depend on how I feel on the pitch. I think I did well in 2018. Afterwards, it is true that I like to give penalties to the forwards. But I think that for the coach I am the first pitcher. ” .

Your role in France: “I feel freer than at Barça, whether to come to claim a ball or to finish an action in the area. When it comes to defending, I move for the needs of the team: sometimes, I defend as a midfielder, to times as a winger. From the moment I'm free offensively, I feel good. When they ask me to attack as a winger, I don't have the speed for one-on-one. I'm not a reference either. “

Recognition in France and criticism: “In France I have earned respect. Those who know football realize that I do well in all the places I go. In the national team, all the balls go through me, I feel freer, as in Atlético Madrid. In Barcelona it was complicated by my first games and the criticism was sometimes exaggerated. In 2021, however, I think it will get better. “

His relationship with Messi: “My relationship with Messi is good. We understand each other well. Sometimes we write messages to each other, we communicate a lot in training. On the pitch he is a player with whom it is very easy to play. In the game, he is getting better and better. This year has been complicated by injuries and in a system in which everyone has not been in their best position. But now a new season is going to begin with new incorporations. “