Atlético Madrid forward Antoine Griezmann spoke to the media ahead of Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League semifinal second leg against Arsenal, highlighting how historic a moment it could be for the club to reach the final of the tournament again before he leaves in the summer.
“Every time we start the Champions League, you see yourself lifting the trophy, any team and player, any kid in their room,” the Frenchman responded was asked if he has imagined lifting the trophy.
On how the team will make that
possible, Griezmann explained “we’re two games away, and we’re going to try to be solid tactically and defensively and follow the same approach we took in the second half at home, which was very good, though it would have been nice to score a few more goals.”
Antoine Griezmann on what is possibly his last game in the Champions League
“I still think so (that there will be one more game). I’m really looking forward to tomorrow; I’m very excited. It’ll be a great game to play and experience, and hopefully we’ll see the same level of fan support, performance and second half that we had before.”
Griezmann on scoring for Atleti at the Emirates before
“It doesn’t matter if I score or not, I’d rather set up a goal or win a match than score one myself. I’m more composed and calm going into these matches now. I used to feel a lot of stress. Before, I’d go over the matches in my head 50 times, but now I’m calmer and more at ease. I know what to expect, so I can focus on winning the match.”
Griezmann on what he could’ve missed if he left mid-season
“I was always clear: my plan was to stay here because I felt we could achieve something incredible, and we’re one step away from playing in another final, something historic. The team knows this, there’s a lot of calm and absolute confidence from everyone.”
Griezmann on the importance of experience
“Champions League matches are always different, beautiful. It’s helped me that I’ve wanted to play in them since I was a kid. I’m not one to talk to the younger players; I’m one to lead by example, to show them my enthusiasm, joy, and strong motivation to play the match. Then, during the action and the match itself, I can help my teammates tactically or technically, knowing when to slow things down and when to speed up the play when it’s my turn, that’s where I can help the most. Koke is more about talking and motivating people with words; I do it through action.”
Griezmann on a potential final before he leaves
“I’m focusing on tomorrow’s match, knowing what I have to do, and as I said before, I’m not one to dwell on whether there’s one or two matches left. I’m all about being mentally sharp and eager to play.”
Griezmann on similarities with Álex Baena
“A little in the style of play. He played a lot on the wing at Villarreal, here he’s playing in the center. He knows very well how far he’s come, and that it’s very difficult for any player, especially players like us. I see myself as very similar to him; between the coach, his teammates, the fans and him, they’ll find the key for him to really shine.”
Griezmann on what has changed from the Griezmann of the 2016 final
“That final, that year, was very different. I used to go into matches feeling a lot of stress. My matches were at full speed, and I didn’t know when to stop or take a breather. Now I’m a better player, more complete, calmer, and I approach the match with more enthusiasm and joy.
“These are moments you think will come back but don’t. Tomorrow I’m really looking forward to it, I’m full of joy and I’m going to enjoy it, because playing in a Champions League semifinal isn’t something just anyone gets to do.”
(“And be a world champion,” adds Simeone).
Griezmann on staying fit and energetic
“I have the same eagerness to see the stadium, to see the opponent’s flags, the Arsenal fans, the field, the stands, and I’m eager to be there tomorrow to play and have a good time. Staying fresh is often a mental game. We’re lucky to play every three days, and you can’t stop to think about the previous match; you have to focus on helping your teammates, whether offensively or defensively, and having fun because it’s a game, and we’re in the Champions League semifinals and can make history. We’ll do everything possible to reach the final and enjoy it.”
