“We wanted to make a gesture”: Antoine Griezmann explains the genesis of the Blues’ donation to Restos du Coeur

2023-09-06 20:25:14

We were expecting Kylian Mbappé, the captain of the Blues, at the traditional pre-match press conference behind the scenes at the Parc des Princes. But it was Antoine Griezmann, the vice-captain, who stuck to this mission.

How do you feel in your role as vice-captain?

ANTOINE GRIEZMANN. This role has not changed me personally. I’m open and like to make everyone comfortable. For press conferences, if necessary, I am available. So it really doesn’t matter.

Does the game of the Blues lean too far to the left?

If it plays on the left, it will end on the right with a cross and I will be on the fallout of the ball! What matters is to move the block in front and find spaces. Every team has a strong side. And ours is the left.

You want to compete in the Paris Olympics in a year. Others too. Can it bring competition?

There is no competition. I’ve said it before in the dressing room in Madrid and even here sometimes: it’s a dream and a goal. But there will only be three. We know that a lot of people want to do it. There will be three lucky ones and things will be in front of their TV.

Should new leaders emerge in Blue?

It happens naturally. When it’s overplayed it shows. There are players made for that. Some express themselves through gesture like Lucas (Hernandez). Others know how to yell when necessary, like Mike (Maignan). Everyone can express themselves.

How did all the players decide to donate to Restos du Coeur?

The coach talked about it to Kils (Kylian Mbappé) who told me about it right after. We had a discussion with the whole group which lasted a maximum of one and a half minutes. We wanted to make a gesture.

You are going to play your 78th match in Blue in a row. Is this a record you are proud of?

It is an immense pride. When I arrived, the record was Patrick Vieira with 44 games. Health follows and I have the confidence of the coach. We will continue to push this record as far as possible.

Are you interested in the Rugby World Cup which begins on Friday?

It gets very hot! We will try to win and then go see them, either on TV or at the stadium. We want a big “shit”. Sorry for that word.

Did you have any keys to leaving Atletico de Madrid this summer?

There have been calls and touches but I am focused on my club. But I’m 15 goals from the club goalscoring record. I told my sister (Editor’s note: who manages her affairs), “we are not moving. And since my return, I have been reinstated by the supporters. So now was not the time to leave

What memories do you have of the first leg in Ireland?

It was very complicated there. At one point we were all behind in pain and big Mike saved us two or three times. We will have to keep the ball to not suffer so much.

Would a victory take the pressure off for the rest of the qualifying matches?

Winning against Ireland would be important but not decisive. But in an international match, if we lose then, we would be criticized. In selection, you always have to win. Even if we are qualified.

How do you judge Kylian Mbappé’s start to the season?

He is off to a very good start to the season. I always try to put it in the best conditions. He is a great player, and a very great French personality. He was in turmoil this summer and he responded from the first match in Toulouse.