In a recent interview, Atletico Madrid goalkeeper Oblak said he is very excited about the upcoming Club World Cup.He is currently training with the team in the United States to prepare for this globally-anticipated tournament.In this interview, he not only talks about his thoughts on the tournament, but also shares the team’s current mentality and goals.
How important is this tournament for Atletico?
Oblak said, “I think it means a lot to us to be in a big competition like this.To be honest, I’m especially looking forward to this tournament.Because it’s a chance to compete for the title.We will do our best to get a good result and we will not give up any chance easily.”
He made it clear that this is not an ordinary tournament, but a chance to represent the club on the world stage and show its strength.Although Atletico have yet to win any trophies this season, this time they hope to make a breakthrough in the Club World Cup.
Pride or pressure?
When asked if he felt proud or pressured to participate in the Club World Cup, Oblak replied, “I think it’s both.On the one hand, the fact that we’re here shows that the team has done well over the past few years, which is a validation; on the other hand, we know that expectations are high and we have to put in a good performance to respond to those expectations.”
He explained that not every team can participate in this tournament, only teams that have performed consistently over the past four years are eligible.So to be able to compete is an honor in itself, while winning the tournament is their responsibility.
What is the status of the team now?
Speaking about the team’s current state of mind, Oblak said, “Whether the team is at a peak or a trough, our mentality has always been strong.Of course, being eliminated from the Champions League hurt us, followed by successive losses in the league and the Copa del Rey, but we have adjusted from these difficulties.”
He said that the whole team is now focused on preparing for the Club World Cup, and even though some of the players have just finished playing for their national teams, everyone is ready for the challenge.“It’s a fast-paced and competitive tournament and we have to be at our best.”
How important is it to start well?
Asked if it was essential to win in the group stage, Oblak said, “Of course, it’s always good to win, especially against strong teams.But it’s only the first of three group stage games and it won’t decide everything.”
He believes that the team needs to take things one game at a time and not lose confidence just because of the result of one game.“A good start is of course great, but if the result is not as good as we would like, we need to stay calm and keep working hard.”
How do you feel about rivals Paris Saint-Germain?
Finally, talking about the possible tough opponent Paris Saint-Germain, Oblak said, “They are one of the strongest teams in Europe.From the beginning of the season until now, their squad has been strong and they brought in some new players in January.Their performance in the Champions League proved their strength.”
He said, “We knew it would be difficult to play against a team like that.But they didn’t start off well, they just slowly found their form later.Now they want to win the Club World Cup as well, so we have to give it our all to have a chance of winning.”
Overall, Oblak’s statement sends a clear message that Atletico Madrid didn’t come to the Club World Cup this time just to go through the motions, but came with a goal in mind – and that is to fight for the title.They are aware of the big challenge ahead of them, but are ready to rise to the occasion.Fans can expect Atletico to show their true strength in this world-class competition.
