Inter striker Marcus Thuram highlighted to dangers of Atletico Madrid and how he handles the pressure ahead of their Champions League Round of 16 clash.
The Nerazzurri played a controlled group stage in the first half of the season, heavily rotating the squad in order to keep up their fitness for the title race. As such, Simone Inzaghi’s side finished second behind Real Sociedad, drawing them with Group E winners Atletico.
Thuram has proven himself to be the top signing of last summer’s transfer window in Serie A, having scored 12 goals and provided 11 assists in 33 appearances across all competitions so far this season, quickly forming a strong partnership with Lautaro Martinez.
Speaking in a press conference via TMW, Thuram was first asked if he manages to get a lot of sleep before such important matches.
“Yes, even before the league. Tomorrow will be a beautiful match and it will be important to rest before the match.”
He touched on the differences between the match against Atletico and others.
“We’re focusing on ourselves, we have to be very serious and concentrated from the first minute to play a great match.”
The French striker was asked how the Nerazzurri can handle Antoine Griezmann.
“We all know Antoine, we know that he is an incredible player, but he is a problem that can be solved as a team, together.”
Thuram discussed his light-hearted jovial attitude.
“No, I haven’t gone crazy if that’s what you’re asking! I’m feeling great in this squad, we’re friends even off the pitch and it’s nice to play in this team.”
He commented on if this was a turning point in his career.
“Yes, I’ve learned a lot since I arrived at Inter, I continue to learn game after game. It’s a season that’s going well for now, let’s hope it continues like this.”
The 26-year-old spoke about training with Lautaro.
“He is one of the best strikers in the world, playing with him is simple. We adapt and know each other’s characteristics.”
He was asked about his expectations for the match with Atletico.
“We have to enter the pitch like in every match, to win. Tomorrow’s match is more important.”
Thuram discussed the work of Alexis Sanchez.
“Having Alexis in the team is an honour, we know the career he’s had and the teams he’s played for. He’s a great champion, training with him helps me a lot.”
He was asked about the adaption of Tajon Buchanan.
“Very good, like everyone. He is a very fast player who can beat his man.”
The Frenchman commented on the strengths and weaknesses of Atletico.
“They’re a team we know, who dribble well and have strong forwards. We have to be careful about their counterattacks.”
He spoke about his relationship with Henrikh Mkhitaryan.
“Miki is an incredible player, who’s been doing very well since the start of the season. We try to do a lot on the pitch.”
He gave a quality of coach Inzaghi.
“He is very frank, he tells us things when he has things to say, he doesn’t wait days to do it.”
Finally, Thuram discussed where he can improve.
“Everywhere… Without the ball, with the ball, attacking the goal. I have a lot to do.”