At 3 a.m. on June 1, the Champions League final, Allianz Stadium in Munich, Paris vs. Inter Milan. Before the game, Dembele accepted an exclusive interview with UEFA. ■ About the Champions League Dembele said: "I played in the UEFA Champions Lea...
■ About the Champions League
Dembele said: "I played in the UEFA Champions League for nine of my ten seasons of my career, which is amazing. I hope this will last until the end of my career. Because it is the greatest event, you always want to participate. You will never get used to it, especially before you win the championship. Once you win the championship, you will want to win it again in the next year."
"I made my first Champions League debut at Dortmund. I remember my first game was against Legia Warsaw, and the atmosphere was crazy. Later I went to the Champions League with Barcelona, and the slogan was 'must win'. Now at Paris Saint-Germain, I have played twice in the semifinals and will be the final this year."
■ About the two years in Paris
"Here coach Enrique came here with a very clear coaching philosophy. He changed many aspects of the team and the players' mentality changed dramatically. We always went all out, especially at Paris Saint-Germain, and we had the ambition to win this trophy for the first time."
"I have changed a lot myself, especially on the field position and style of the game. Enrique gave me a lot of advice, yes, I adjusted many of the details of my game, despite maintaining the inherent technical characteristics, and these changes are taking effect. The coach allowed me to move freely on the court without having to fix the position like a traditional No. 9 forward. I worked hard to create space and create chaos in the midfield area."
■ About the forward teammates Kvaratskhelia, Due and Balkora
"Kvaratskhelia and Due joined, quickly adapted to the team's playing style and the coach's tactical requirements. We enjoy playing together, attacking and defending together. We are hungry for the trophy, have a real winner mentality, and motivate each other. Competition within the team is crucial to inspiring the players' best form."
■ About the decisive battle at Allianz Stadium in Munich
"Even if I am highly focused in the pre-match channel, I also have a smile, because this is the game we dreamed of participating in since childhood. Standing on the Champions League final stage is a miracle itself. We will step on the arena with full concentration and pride, and of course we hope to win."
"But it will never be easy against Inter Milan. They are an extremely difficult team, and I have been paying attention to them all season, after all, my friend Turam played there. Everything is possible in the final. Will Turam and I still be friends after the kickoff? Not on the court, there is no friendship in the Champions League final."
