Paris Saint-Germain and Portugal midfielder Vitinha says his team must prove their potential on the pitch if they’re to meet expectations in Germany.
Speaking to the media at Seleção‘s first press conference in Germany, Vitinha was clear on the squad’s mindset ahead of their opening fixture against Czechia on Tuesday 18th June.
“It’s important to show what we’ve come for. It’s important to show how much we want to win and be present at the European Championship. It’s all the more important because it’s our first game, our first demonstration at the European Championship, and we have to show that we’re strong.”
Embed from Getty ImagesRoberto Martínez’s side are seen as one of the teams with the best chance at the title, but Vitinha was clear that they are not getting ahead of themselves just yet.
“We know that expectations are going to be very high outside the group, among the press and fans, which is normal, given the quality we have. But we have to remember our worth and what we have to do. And not think too much about the future. If we think about the next game, we’ll be closer. The key is to manage expectations.
“We have a great team, with great players playing for great clubs. It’s hard to remember so many players at such good clubs, but great teams prove themselves on the pitch, not in theory. And that’s what we have to do at this European Championship, to reinforce the idea that we’re a great team. We have great players and it’s important that we show that on the pitch.”
Portugal arrived in Germany yesterday to huge crowds of supporters, which Vitinha highlighted in his remarks.
“I must emphasise, thank and praise the reception, both at the airport and on the way here, as well as the reception at the hotel, it was unbelievable.“
He reflected on his memories of Portugal’s triumph in 2016, when he himself was still a teenager.
“I remember watching the final at home with my family. There was a lot of tension and it was hard to watch the game to the end. It was a tense and important game for everyone, but in the end we celebrated and it was incredible.
“[We] know that we have the power to give that joy once again.“
The midfielder enjoyed an excellent season with PSG, a fixture in the team that claimed a third consecutive Ligue 1 title. His abilities were also noted on the European stage as he was named in the UEFA Champions’ League Team of the Season.
“It was an important honour for me. It’s always nice to receive this kind of honour. I mentioned it on my social media accounts, because it’s something important in my career, but now we’re not here to talk about individuals, but about the team and how we’re going to prepare for the next game. We’re thinking about beating Czechia. Everything I gave at Paris Saint-Germain I hope to give here.”
Portugal are favourites to top Group F, and will face Georgia, Czechia, and Türkiye on what they hope will be the route to reclaiming their European crown. You can read our full preview of their chances, and follow their campaign, here on FromTheSpot.