Youssef Aït Bennasser: "I came to give it my all"

What is your state of mind today?

I’m happy to sign with such a great French club that’s very well placed in the championship. Playing against the top contenders and in an atmosphere like that of the Geoffroy-Guichard stadium will be good for my morale. I’ll be more at ease mentally. Saint-Étienne is a very good team, it’s a lot better for me because I like to touch the ball and run. I’m capable of playing everywhere in the middle of the field and I like to put myself at the service of the team. That’s what the coach told me he was looking for when he called me.

How did you come to join the team?

It happened very quickly at the end of the transfer window because the project pleased me. I exchanged words with the coach by telephone and he told me that he was counting on me. He gave me the desire to be of service to the team and to give back the confidence that Saint-Étienne placed in me. When a club like ASSE calls on you, it’s difficult to refuse.

How has your start been?

I had my second training session this morning and I’m still enjoying myself. It’s a good team, the players gave me a warm welcome. I’m adapting well. The fans that I’ve rubbed shoulders with are happy that I’m here, they’re waiting to see me play for the first time.

What are your personal ambitions?

Playing as much as possible and gaining experience. Being with players who have played in the Europa League gives me motivation and last season this team showed that it had character. Today, I’m at 100%. I rarely stop so I feel ready physically. I’ve come to give all I have.