After a day off and less than a week before the start of the Ligue 1 season, the PSG players were back at training on Tuesday. It was the chance to catch up with Antoine Kombouaré and talk about the preparation for the new season.

Antoine, how do you judge PSG’s preseason?
“We played a number of training matches which saw us work physically and tactically as a team. We had to ensure the players developed their teamwork and understanding. I feel like we worked well but we won’t know for sure until the season starts. I’m going to wait for the first four or five games of the season before settling on the real idea about the potential of the squad. It’s still too early...”

You team played in the Emirates Cup this weekend – what did you think of the squad?
“More than the result, which was disappointing, it was very positive. I don’t like losing and it’s true I would have preferred the team win at least one of the two games. Having said that, however, I really liked the way the players carried themselves and how we played football. We were solid defensively and created goal-scoring chances, we played good attacking football and all of that is important. To come back against Atletico Madrid was really pleasing, especially after the sending off of Albert Baning. Down to ten men, we never gave up, we fought hard, stayed organised and disciplined and deserved to equalise. That proves that we are mentally strong. It’s in moments like that that you can see the true value of a team.”

What are your plans until the end of the week, just days before the start of the season?
“We need to set ourselves goals in order to be ready to take on Montpellier. We need to work on the freshness and continue to work on our speed. We have give ourselves every chance and getting the win.”

You are going to take charge of your first official match as PSG coach, how are you going to approach this moment?
“I don’t feel any special pressure. We’re still preparing for the season. I’m just thinking about the little details that will make my team stronger defensively, but also when we’re in possession and on the attack. It’s my job to make sure the players prepare correctly. I have to look after the ‘behind the scenes training’ – things like the treatment room, the nutritional side of things. They can also prove the difference between winning and losing.”

Can you tell us a little bit about Montpellier?
“There have been a lot of changes at Montpellier during the off season. Eric Pécout, our recruiter, went and saw them play and I read his report – but they’re things I’ll talk to the players first about. They’re a promoted side, so for them, it’s crucially important to win their first home game of the season. Playing PSG will be an even greater motivation for their players. PSG is always a big game, especially for the teams in the south. We’ll be up against a very strong team – no doubt!”

What do you think about the appointment of Robin Leproux as president of the club?
“It was decision made by Sébastien Bazin. If he decides to name a new president it’s because he thinks he’s the right man for the job. Hence, it’s a good thing to see Robin Leproux join the club. The ideal thing will be if we all get along well and form a good team with the president, the coach and the players. Everyone needs to want to see a winning PSG.”