Antoine Griezmann today gave an interview to the club's official channels 48 hours after the most important game of the season. The former Atlético player sends a message to the Bavarian rival's bravado: “We are at our best and with maximum confidence.”
How are you living this post-confinement stage?
On a physical level it is tiring due to the heat and the accumulation of matches, but the strangest thing is to play without our people, with the stadium empty. We see their messages on social networks and that also encourages us.
Do you like this format of a neutral headquarters?
It is closer to a selection tournament. We have to win, do everything to make a great game and pass.
Have your suitcase already packed?
Yes, I will prepare my suitcase until August 23, I even take the Play in my suitcase.
Will you get very bored during the concentration?
It is also good to spend time with colleagues, share experiences, talk with them.
What would you compare this final phase of the Champions League to?
It can be similar to a World Cup or a European Championship. We have three games left to win the Champions League. We will have to be together in good times and in bad times.
Are you aware that you are only three games away from lifting a title?
The group is very clear about it. We have little left. Friday's game first. It will be difficult, but we have tools to achieve it.
How are you doing after your quadriceps injury?
On a personal level, the three weeks to recover from the injury went well, although the first minutes against Napoli I was a bit lacking in rhythm.
Is the team in the best moment of the season?
We arrived in Lisbon with enthusiasm and confidence. We have trained hard. We are close to our best.
Was your goal in Naples very important to be calmer in the return leg?
That goal in Naples was important, but the play was the merit of Busquets, Messi and Semedo.
Do you know that Bayern are favorites in the tie?
We are prepared for what is coming. I see the team well, with enthusiasm and confidence.
In 2016 you faced them in the semifinals of the Champions League?
It was a very good meeting. First Calderón and then there. He gave us a final. I have marked Neuer with Atlético and with France, but each game is different.
How do you see the rival?
The most important thing is us. It is true that Bayern is well and confident, they have a great striker, but we have to look at ours. It is a powerful team, very hard-working and physical, used to having the ball.
What will be the key?
You have to try to have the ball for as long as possible and defend and attack all together.
Are you worried about Lewandowski?
Bayern is not only a player but a whole block. A collective that makes Lewandowski's job easier.
Have you spoken to the French from Bayern?
Yes, I spoke with Lucas days ago, to see if he was okay and little else.
Did they tell you something about the concern for Messi?
Sure they are pending of Messi, Suárez or De Jong. But we are a collective.
Will it be the most important game you have ever played for Barça?
All the games are the same at Barça, be it the League, the Champions League or the Cup. You have to win all the games here.
What are the rivals you see with the most options to win the Champions League?
Bayern, Atlético and City are the strongest rivals. Atlético to just one game is very dangerous.