The Parisian coach discussed the beginning of the training camp in Aix-les-Bains before giving his thoughts on PSG’s first friendly match of the pre-season, against Evian on Saturday at 19:00.

Coach, is the beginning of the training camp living up to your expectations?
“Yes. We’re working hard. The prime objective is to work hard physically, but we’re looking at tactics and the mental side of things as well. This camp gives us a chance to create some strong bonds and to give the team a soul. That’s the spirit of what we’re trying to achieve. We started the training camp on Wednesday, and now we have nine days left to fine-tune everything and then keep moving forward, because the camp isn’t an end in itself. We have about five weeks in which to prepare for the start of the league season.”

Are the players coping with the heat wave?
“We’re not going to complain. It’s the first time I’ve come here as a coach, to work at high altitude. I’ve been accustomed to going to Brittany because I know the area well. It’s true that it’s hot here, but it’s hot all over France right now. We just have to adapt and try to pace ourselves so that the players can keep up the good work.”

Do you think the heat will allow you to adequately prepare for the upcoming friendly matches?
“Right no we’re thinking about the work we need to do to best prepare for the friendly games that are just around the corner. These matches will give us a good grounding for the season ahead but the first title up for grabs is the Champions Trophy. We’re concentrating hard so that we can be ready for this match.”

How are you approaching this match against Evian?
“It’s a preparation match, for which we will prepare specifically. I’ll spread out the game time over the whole squad – because we have training on Sunday. More than anything it will be like a practice match.”