the essential
He landed in Toulouse on Tuesday after playing two matches with England’s hopefuls. Charlie Cresswell couldn’t stop smiling on Wednesday, November 20, looking forward to facing PSG two days later. The one who started football as an attacker is making his mark within the TFC defense which he joined last July. A fan of Leeds and Steven Gerrard, he confides in his rise to power and recounts the happiness he has experienced for several weeks, on and off the pitch.
How are you feeling before this trip to the Parc des Princes?
I’m looking forward to this match in Paris. Everyone knows PSG, a big club, a big audience and a big track record… But I saw that last season, Toulouse won in Paris so I hope we can do the same thing. This is our plan (smile).
Did you know that last year TFC spoiled the party in Paris because they had to celebrate their Ligue 1 title after the match?
No ? Seriously (laughter). I hope it happens the same way.
Also read:
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Before the international break, you had three consecutive victories… Did this break come at the wrong time in your opinion?
(He thinks). Yes and no. Yes because it’s true that it would have been good to continue riding this positive dynamic. But at the same time, I think we left the club on a positive note and so everyone is looking forward to coming back, with a smile, a good atmosphere and confidence. We’re full of energy so it’s great.
Also read:
TFC: “I like playing at a club that has meaning for people”, why Charlie Cresswell, Leeds fan launched by Bielsa, loves Toulouse
Personally, you seem to feel better and better in this team and on the pitch, is that your opinion too?
Yes totally. All I needed was to play a series of matches to regain my level and gain confidence. Last year I didn’t play much. So it’s been a long time since I’ve been able to play several matches in a row. Today I’m back in shape and I’m enjoying every moment.
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At each match, you are always one of the first to address the crowd and celebrate goals or victories with your supporters. Is it important for you to be close to the public?
(He smiles) Of course, I love it. These are moments that are part of the match. You know when I was young, I was in the stands in their place and I loved seeing the players who came to celebrate right down there, with us. Plus, the feeling we get when our team scores is always special. You only live once you know, so you might as well make the most of it when you have the chance. (smile).
DDM – LAURENT DARD
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Before arriving, had you already heard of the city of Toulouse?
Honestly, no. Never. But of course I found out, I read a lot about the city, I spoke to friends who had already been there. Everyone told me it was a great city. And that there was a big rugby club. I like this sport. Besides, when I moved, I received a text from Jack Willis (third line of Stade Toulousain from England). He said, “Welcome to town and if you need anything, contact me.” I found it really nice.
Also read:
PSG – TFC: “Paris? We already won there last season…” Toulouse striker Yann Gboho launches hostilities for the resumption of L1
You have lived here since July, how do you feel in this city?
I adore. At first you had to get used to it but now, the more I live here, the more I feel good here.
Have you heard of Rhys Healey (English TFC striker between 2020 and 2023)?
Yes, imagine that I even saw the video of one of his goals today (Wednesday November 20) on Instagram. But I don’t know him, I just know that he left his mark on the club.
Also read:
TFC – Nantes: Charlie Cresswell, what did the Toulouse players and coach think of the English rookie’s first match?
How do you keep yourself busy when you’re not playing football?
I spend a lot of time with my girlfriend. She moved in with me this summer, it’s cool to have her here. She is trying to find a job but it is difficult because she does not speak French. We both take classes every week. She is looking in any field, but for the moment it is complicated. Anyway, we live in the city and it’s great. We have everything nearby, we do everything on foot or by bike. It’s a life we appreciate. The banks of the Garonne are magnificent, you have a lot of big churches too, we visited them… And then, we go to a lot of restaurants… My favorite is La Compagnie Française….
Like many TFC players…
(Laughs) It’s true, it’s a restaurant that we recommend to each other! But there are plenty of others that I love. There are so many restaurants in this city anyway, it’s great.
Don’t you miss England too much?
No, my family and friends come regularly, they have already come to watch matches. For them it’s like a vacation. I also suspect them of coming only to enjoy the sun (laughs)… No, it’s really cool. My girlfriend and I set up a city tour to show our loved ones around when they are there, we always do the same (he laughs).
