Read what defender Federico Fazio had to say ahead of Thursday’s Europa League game against Austrian side Wolfsberg.
The game in Graz gets underway at 18:55 local time.
In Italy the Europa League is almost seen as burden. Do you feel the same?
“It was like that in England too but we’re doing the best we can, because we want to win it. We cannot take this competition lightly – it’s wonderful and can earn you qualification for the Champions League. Very good sides compete in the tournament and we need to take it one game at a time. We won’t be underestimating Wolfsberg – they’re a good side. We will respect them, just as we respect the competition, showing desire to win.”
What has Paulo Fonseca brought in recent weeks, a period in which you’ve appeared more balanced in defence?
“I’ve always liked playing attacking football. We’re now more compact and balanced as a team – the most important thing is to win games. Match by match we’re developing an identity. We always want to win – every game, in every competition. For that reason, it’s very important to only focus on the next game. It’s important for us to win the match tomorrow.”
How does your way of playing change depending on your defensive partner? Is it different from before when you played with Kostas Manolas?
“We play as a team, regardless of the team-mates you have at your side, in front or behind you. We always play as a team and work hard, whoever’s in the team. We want to defend and attack as a unit, so it doesn’t change anything.”
Were there individual shortcomings last year or was it a question of condition?
“All of the team struggled on the pitch. We had a difficult period – the season didn’t unfold as we’d hoped and we were always playing catch up. Regardless of who was out on the pitch, things didn’t go as we wanted. Fortunately this season has started differently – I see a different team from last year. There’s also a fresh atmosphere around the place, compared to last season.”
