Darmian: "Another final, an intense week: we are one step away from our dream"

After Simone Inzaghi, both Matteo Darmian and Marcus Thuram had press conferences for the UEFA Open Media Day ahead of the Champions League Final between PSG and Inter. These are the Nerazzurri defender's words to the journalist's questions at the BPER Training Centre:

What could make the difference this week compared to the week before the final against Manchester City two years ago? "We will approach this week with all the emotions of a final in mind. Playing in a Champions League final is extraordinary, the game two years ago gave us this experience and awareness that we were missing. We will be in the best position possible by preparing for a very difficult game, paying attention to every little detail, as these become key in these sorts of contests". How important will sitting a bit deeper be? "We know they are really strong, they have shown it all season. I don't think PSG are only strong in attack, they are a complete team, who are well organised, and made up of players with great quality. We must stay focused, but we will need to work as a team in the defensive phase: we will try to play our game to get what we want, which is victory". A question on Nicola Zalewski: did he surprise you with his level of performance? "He is a fanastic player, he has become a part of the team really well and he has shown his quality. He can play in different positions, we know that he can give us a hand and he has shown it over these games".

You have played 29 matches, 20 from the start: how will you go about this week? "We know it's a really important game, it's difficult to get to a Champions League Final and it certainly doesn't happen every year. We must approach this week with the right focus and tension, but also you need a bit of lightheartedness. We will prepare in the best way possible, and we will be positive as we have an extraordinary match to come at the end of the week". What could the impact of your average age be? "I don't know if it will make a difference. PSG are a strong, young side, but they do have experience. We have the qualities to win, and we will show this with a great performance in Munich". Two years ago it was said that the more-experienced players would have felt the pain more: did you expect to get another chance? "You don't always manage such an important achievement. When you play for a big club like Inter, the goal is to win trophies, and it's what we have tried to do over these years of growth. This year we have reached another Champions League final and I want to enjoy the moment, knowing that it could be my last chance to do so". You played with Hakimi for a year: what memories do you have of him? "All of us within the club and the fans have great memories of Hakimi because of what he did for Inter. He did really well in the year that he was here. He is a great player and a great person, he is showing this at PSG. I hope he's not the one celebrating on Saturday, but I wish him the best of luck for everything". What does it mean to be managed by someone like Simone Inzaghi? "I think the boss is a great manager and over these years, a great relationship has formed. I am not only talking on behalf of myself, but for the whole team: this union has been created and it has made the difference, including with the staff. Inzaghi is a great manager and a top person". Two years ago it was about parties and dreams, but do you feel greater responsibility now? "As I have said, we must have a bit of everything, getting ready with intensity and responsibility. We know how important this game is, it has been an incredible, and deserved journey. Right from the first game we showed we are an important team, we have done it the whole year, and we should win with the right balance of tension, focus and calmness". How has Inter changed in terms of awareness compared to two years ago? "The final two years ago was a huge lesson for us, it made us aware of the importance of being strong and mature. We showed this last year and this season, our growth had brought us here: we are one step from our dream, and we hope to get over the line".