Coach, with just 24 hours to go before the start of the season, do you think Paris-SG is ready?
"Yes, we've had a very good preparation, without picking up any new injuries, and I think we're ready. We've improved over the course of this month of pre-season training and we're ready to attack this first match."

You're up against a Lorient side that beat PSG in the opening game of last season, 1-0...
"History tells us that Lorient won here last season. At any rate, the first match of the season is always difficult, especially this season because we have a lot of motivation and ambition. It will be very important to have a good mentality, a great attitude in order to play dynamic football. I've seen many Lorient matches and that look in good condition. They are a well organised side and it won't be easy."

What are you expecting from your players in this baptism of fire?
"I'm confident, and I hope we will play some good football, like we did towards the end of last season. Obviously it will take a little time to perfect our play, especially in attack because Lavezzi and Zlatan, for example, haven't played a full 90 minutes together. The players are motivated, we've worked well and everyone knows that this will be an historical season for the club."

Looking more long term, what are Paris Saint-Germain's objectives for this season?
"The club has worked very hard to recruit some major players this season. We are starting a championship that we want to win and I hope we will win it. Every other team wants to knock us off. We finished second last season, so we should be looking to finish first this season. We will have to show a lot of motivation and character because I think we have the possibility to win. The objective is clear: win the Ligue 1 championship and be competitive in the Champions League."

Do you feel any special pressure, given all the expectation?
"I don’t feel any special pressure, because I have a fantastic team. Yes, there is work to do, but I'm very happy and excited to improve our football and show our quality."

Who do you think will be your main rivals in the coming weeks in the race for the title?
"Even if Lille lost Hazard this summer, Kalou has arrived and he will have a great season. Marseille will also be back to play a leading role. I also think Lyon and Montpellier of course, the defending champions who haven't changed much, even if Giroud has left. As for us, Paris wants to become a big club in France and in Europe. The recent investments will be positive for the club, for the city of Paris, for the Ligue 1 championship and for French football."

Finally, what do you think about Christophe Jallet being called up for the France squad to take on Uruguay next week?
"Last year he had a great season and I hope he will keep improving because he has a host of qualities. At this club, I decided to name him captain because he is a professional, focused and has a very strong bond with Paris Saint-Germain."