Axel Witsel was presented in the main hall of the Wanda Metropolitano as a new Atlético de Madrid player. First, the president, Enrique Cerezo, reviewed the player’s career and some of his achievements so that he could later share his first impressions.
first sensations
“We train very hard, but it has to be like that. The preseason has to be tough. Physically you have to be in good shape to start the championship”.
Atletico’s choice
“I have chosen to come to Atlético de Madrid because I wanted to continue playing at a high level. I know I don’t have 10 years left. For me, Atlético de Madrid is one of those clubs that is at the highest level and that’s why I’m here”.
Adaptation to the group
“They have welcomed me very well. The first days have gone very well. The players are very nice. He spoke a little Spanish and that makes things easier. The first few days in training have been a bit tough. It’s a bit different to what I was doing at my other club in Dortmund.”
Diego Pablo Simeon
“He is one of the best players in the world. It’s one of the reasons I’m here. The last days we have focused on the physical. I haven’t sat down with him yet. I spoke with him before his arrival. I am very glad I came. It doesn’t matter how old you are, with 26 or 33 you can always learn something, and I hope to learn from Simeone”.
Technician instructions
“I feel very good. I think my role will be like in the National Team, it would be six or five as they say here. Try to balance the team, I have that similar role with Belgium and I think it will be more or less the same here.
The fans when he played with Zenit and Borussia
“I remember they were tough games. Very good atmosphere here. It was a very hot match. We played a good game against Borussia, but here it was much more complicated. I want to know this environment, but this time being on the good side”.
Atlético player who has surprised you the most
“It is difficult, there is a group here with a lot of quality. I could say many players Koke, Joao, Yannick, Griezmann, Cunha. We have a group with a lot of quality. It is important because you have to have a very good mentality with men who are eager to work.
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“I have passed through many countries and many clubs. This is the group in which there is more quality in my entire career, there are many internationals. I am proud to be here and to be part of this group.”
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