After four seasons at PSG, the former Parisian, Danilo Pereira, returned to his forced departure from the club this summer, he who no longer fit into the coach's plans.
Arrived at PSG in 2020, Danilo Pereira will have spent four seasons in the French capital. Praised for his professionalism and seriousness, the Portuguese international was forced to leave the Parisian club this summer, he who no longer fit into the plans of
Luis Enrique. However, the PSG
did not make his departure easier and the 33-year-old defender finally took charge ofAl-Ittihad (Saudi Arabia) despite the interest of several clubs in Europe. In a daily interview The Parisianthe former of FC Porto
returned to his adventure PSGhis forced departure this summer and the management of Luis Enrique.
Selected extracts.
Why did you choose Saudi Arabia rather than Europe?
“I had other opportunities. But they were not possible because Paris turned down a lot of offers. There were discussions with the FC Porto,
l'Atlético de Madrid. I had touches in
Italyin Germany. But these transfers were blocked for financial reasons. The club asked for a lot of money. Finally, I received this offer fromAl-Ittihad and I believe it was the right choice. Things had to happen like this. I'm happy to be here and the journey I still have to go. It's a competitive club which still offers me the opportunity to perform well. »
His departure from PSG
“As soon as the 2023-2024 season ended, I had the feeling that something strange was happening… Luis Campos then came to see me to tell me that I was no longer part of the plans. It was the choice of the coach, with whom I did not discuss. »
A departure that has become inevitable?
“I didn't want to continue at a club where they didn't count on me. When they told me: you don't count, you have to look for another club, it was OK. This is a situation that exists in all clubs. On the other hand, it was hard while we negotiated with other teams. The problem was there. They didn't make my departure easy at all. That's what hurt me, because I really have affection for Paris. I wanted to continue my career there. »
Does he have bitterness?
“Yes, it wasn’t easy because I didn’t expect the club to leave me out of the group. That was the most painful feeling. I don't think I deserved this treatment. It was very hard. I was touched because I don't understand why the club behaved like that. I didn't hurt anyone, I just wanted to train normally while I figured out the best solution. »
Does he have the feeling of having been recognized for his true worth at PSG?
“By the supporters, yes. Internally, I don't think so at all. I am happy with the work I did at
PSG. I am happy with the recognition that the Parisians have given me. But internally, overall, we underestimated this work. The people at the club didn't give much value to what I achieved. Sometimes saying a few words is important. »
Does he have any regrets from his adventure at PSG?
“I loved my years at PSG. I just want to keep the good times. It’s a club that you can’t forget. I will keep him in my heart forever. I am a Parisian for life. I remained myself. I always thought I would do what was necessary. My only regret… I think I should have been more selfish. I am always focused on the collective. It's my personality. But it feels good to be selfish sometimes. Except that I couldn't do it differently… The PSG is a different club, in a different city. Things are changing now. There are no big stars, we have a younger team…”
You say “we” when talking about PSG
“Because I am Parisian. It’s my team (he laughs)! If we give it time to become more solid, we will see a PSG very strong (…) They are young players. They still have a way to go before they become even better. We must all be united and think about the future, even when things are not going well. »
How does he define Luis Enrique's management?
“He’s a very good coach. He has very clear ideas. Sometimes it can seem like he doesn't listen to people. He’s into his thing because he really believes in his work! He likes to keep the ball and tire the opponent out. He is a coach who can bring a lot of experience. But it takes time, and in Paris, we're a little short of it. People are in a hurry. In Paris, we tend to doubt a little. And there should be no doubt. A project does not last six months or a year. You have to have a long-term vision. »
Is he the right coach to lead this project?
“Yes, he’s the right person. He has a very very strong character and Paris needs people who will be listened to. Luis Enrique has ideas for advancing a project that lasts over time. It's important that he has the support of the club and the supporters even if we don't like his character. »
A profile didn't match the coach's ideas?
“I wasn’t the type of player he likes. But I understand it. We cannot suit all coaches. »
A word for Parisian supporters
“I would like to thank them for their support. I wanted to say goodbye to a lot of people and not just to the fans with whom I had a special relationship. The president called me to tell me that he would like me to come to
Parc greet them. He stays close to the players, he often sends me messages to find out how things are going. I thanked him but it was too late. I have to think of something else. »
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