Lisbon (AP) - Coach Thomas Tuchel does not want to be put under pressure by the high expectations of Paris Saint-Germain before the quarter-finals in the Champions League against Atalanta Bergamo.
"It's always the same, it also bores me a bit. I don't understand why it's such a big topic in France," said the 46-year-old to the streaming service DAZN about the title claim at PSG. Other teams would also fail in the attempt because "the opponents are extremely strong. That is why it is not worth reacting to, being unsettled and annoyed."
Tuchel has great respect for opponents Atalanta because of the unusual style of play of the Italians. "All the defensive principles that we have believed in for decades, that you stay on your track, don't cross, occupy spaces and move independently of the opponent's path, do not apply to Atalanta," said the former BVB coach. The German Bergamo professional Robin Gosens does not see his team without a chance: "They have a lot of great players, but because of the four-month break they have a big disadvantage. We are in full rhythm and that is crucial for a team," said Gosens Dazn. The team spirit also speaks for the Serie A club.
In today's game, Tuchel will be on the sidelines despite the foot injury he last sustained during training. "It's a bit painful, but it's okay now," said the former Bundesliga coach. "I've got used to it, even if it's difficult. Everything is of course super exhausting, every little way." The coach sprained his left ankle and fractured a metatarsal on August 6th.
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