New season, new role: “It’s true. We’ve only trained for a few days and the gaffer is trying me out there [as a holding midfielder]. I want to help the team wherever necessary. If he wants to put me in the middle, out on the wing, or wherever he needs me I’ll give it everything to try and help the team.”
Vietto: “He looks sharp. He still has to find his role in the team. Some of us have been here longer and we’re used to things, but gradually he’ll settle in and will be an important part of the team.”
How does it feel to be a secret weapon in the Barcelona elections? “I was on holiday and wasn’t even aware of it. I’d disconnected from football, which is what holidays are for, to disconnect. It feels OK, no worries.”
Arda’s move to Barça. “Some friends told me. It’s a shame he’s not continuing with us. I wish him all the best because Arda is a good friend of mine; I wish him luck at Barça.”
Jackson. “He’s a great addition. He’s had some great seasons at Porto; big players are joining the club. Big players always leave and others come in but in the end we always have a good season. At the end of the day the spine of the team always continues and those that come in will adapt.”
Is Oliver going to become part of Atlético? “Yes, I think so. The gaffer has said that he wasn’t going to let him leave and that he’ll play an important role. We know about his quality and for sure he’s going to do well here.”
What can Filipe expect from the fans? “Last year Filipe decided to leave. This year he’s got the chance to return and if he does there will be more competition for places, and that’s always a good thing. That’s how you improve. Whatever’s best for the team, to be able to fight for trophies. The fans? No problem. I reckon that while he plays, and plays well, there won’t be a problem.”
Pre-season. “The ‘Profe’s doing new things all the time. As he claims, so we don’t get bored. At the moment it’s good. We’ll see next week how it’ll get harder.”