Pros Vendredi 26 Janv. 2018 à 15h04

Neven Subotic: «ASSE and me, a good fit»

The new-Stéphanois was officially presented to the media Friday afternoon. The Serbian, central defender, a man who enjoys challenges, appeared motivated concerning the idea of facing a new one.

 
Why did you choose Saint-Etienne?
It’s a very important opportunity for me. I spoke with the club these last few weeks, with current and former players. We have the opportunity to turn things around before the end of the season in a championship with a very tight table. For the club and I, it’s an opportunity, a good fit. In Germany, apart from the teams that play regularly in the Champions League, I don’t know any other club that has had the same stability as ASSE, a team that has qualified four times in a row for the UEFA Europa League. The current ranking of the club does not indicate its general state. By speaking with the players, the coach, I’ve come to understand that the team has good margin to improve. It’s good to see a team that knows that it can do better. I came here for a challenge, not in order to do something easy. Which makes the experience all the more incredible! When I started in Dortmund, the team was 13th in the rankings. Then finished 6th, 5th and finally finished as the champion team. I like challenges. I’m someone that looks for challenges. Moreover I’m going to try to integrate myself as quickly as possible, whether that means finding an apartment or learning the language.
 
What did Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang tell you about AS Saint-Etienne?
He told me that the team was like a family, which helps every football player to play his best. It was the same situation when I was with Borussia Dortmund, which was big for me. He explained to me that everyone here works toward a common goal. We feel that the club is managed in a professional manner. The stability of past seasons and the team’s qualifications for the UEFA Europa League are not important in our current situation. He told me as well that, even if many players that he knew have left, I was going to get along well with everyone in the locker room.
 
What is your opinion of Conforama Ligue 1?
It’s a very athletic championship, one of the best. Pierre-Emerick is a very good example of this. I know that in France, generally, there are high-level physical matches. It’s truly one of the best championships in Europe, with many things in common with the Bundesliga. I really like championships where physical qualities take precedence, where we have to play like men. I enjoy combat.
 
Are you ready physically?
I’m at 100%. In 2017, I didn’t even cough once. I was able to get trough all the training sessions without difficulty. I trained nonstop during the Winter break, because my contract will end at the end of the season. I carry on until the referee blows his whistle to signal the end of the game. I was disappointed that we’re no longer in the Coupe de France because I’m even ready to play 120 minutes if I have to.
 
Was it difficult leaving Dortmund after playing there for almost a decade?
Sometimes in life a separation is called for, even from someone you loved. I love Borussia Dortmund, I will always love this team, I’m certain of that. But from here on out I’m beginning a new experience and I’d like to concentrate on my opportunities here, in Saint-Etienne. I’m going to try to learn French as quickly as possible, integrate myself as best I can. By concentrating on my work, I quickly forget my previous experiences. It was incredible living all those years in Dortmund, but from now I’m solely concentrated on ASSE.
 

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Ensemble, faisons de notre club une source d'engagement, à domicile et à l'extérieur,
car un club de football engagé est un club plus fort !

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