Maghnes Akliouche: "Give ourselves the means to achieve victory" | OneFootball

On the eve of facing Tottenham Hotspur in the third matchday of the Champions League at the Stade Louis-II (Wednesday, 9 p.m.), the AS Monaco playmaker spoke at a press conference.

The Champions League is already back in the Principality. Having recently shone with the French national team during the last international break, Maghnes Akliouche is preparing to take on Tottenham with AS Monaco in the Champions League this Wednesday (9 p.m.), as part of Matchday 3. The Rouge et Blanc playmaker spoke to the media to discuss this crucial match. 🎙️

I think I can answer this question later, because I've only had a few sessions with him. Afterwards, as I said, his principles and style of play are clear, and we'll need courage with and without the ball. What struck me most was his positivity and the energy he brings to the group. It's a new chapter for us and we want to do well!

Maghnes AklioucheHis first week with Sébastien Pocognoli

The first week with the new coach

The week went well; everyone returned from national team duty. Talking to the squad, we immediately felt the coach’s impact. He’s a very positive person, and I think that will help us a lot, especially in adapting quickly to this new tactical system.

(On training) I think I can answer this question later, because I’ve only had a few sessions with him. As I said, his principles and style of play are clear, and we’ll need courage with and without the ball. What struck me most was his positivity and the energy he brings to the squad. This is a new chapter for us, and we want to do well!

On Thilo Kehrer’s influence

I’ve known him for a while now. He’s someone who helps out on a daily basis and pushes the younger players to the top, especially. Thilo is one of those key players who, when times get tough, is very important, both in training and in matches. He’s very consistent in his performances and is still improving, both on and off the pitch. Underrated? Yes, perhaps.

A desire to get back to winning ways in the Champions League

Of course we want to win. What’s more, tomorrow’s match against Tottenham will be at home; we really enjoy playing here with our fans. It’s going to be an important match, and we have the ability to do something, so we’ll have to give it our all to get the win. (On Wilson Odobert) He’s a very technical and fast winger who can bring a lot to Tottenham. I played with him with the U21s, and I’ll be happy to see him tomorrow.

I felt more comfortable than during the first session in September. I know the coach, the staff and my teammates better, so in training and in matches, it's easier and I think that showed on the pitch.

His new status as a French international

I’ve had a busy month between playing for the French national team and AS Monaco, but it’s part of being a young footballer to constantly adapt. I feel good, I’m ready to respond and perform on the pitch. That’s the most important thing for me, and I’m solely focused on my overall and collective performance.

The second time with the French national team

I felt more comfortable than during the first session in September. I know the coach, the staff, and my teammates better, so in training and in matches, it’s easier, and I think it showed on the pitch. Have I reached a new level? I don’t know, but I try to give my all when I’m with the national team; it’s really important to me.

Crédit Photo : Icon Sport

Room for improvement?

I think speaking out is an area where I can improve, and I’m aware of that. I work on it every day, because for a top-level player, you have to be able to contribute to the team both on and off the field. So, that’s where I’m developing and trying to continue to do so.