Ivan Perišić is looking forward with confidence to PSV’s start in the UEFA Champions League. The Croatian emphasizes that, after three consecutive national titles, PSV now also wants to make its mark on the European stage. The first opportunity awaits on Thursday evening against Shakhtar Donetsk.
What is your goal for the upcoming Champions League season?
“I think it’s time to take the next step. We’ve now won the championship three times in a row, and it’s time for us to really build on that. As far as I’m concerned, we should start playing a more prominent role.”
Last season, things went wrong against Belgium’s Union. How important is it to get off to a better start this year?
“We can’t start the way we did last year. That haunted us for the rest of the league phase. We need to start strong, with a win.”
The dress rehearsal was the big match against Ajax. How does that level compare to a Champions League match?
“It feels similar, and that’s also reflected in the data. In terms of quality, there’s no difference—it’s really comparable to the Premier League and the Bundesliga.”
Are the stories true that you’re at the gym every day?
“Haha, yeah, I have to. I have to compete with young guys, so you have to be fit. Every day I have a double session, and that’s the bare minimum I can do. That’s what my teammates have to do, too.”
There’s been a lot of talk this week about Ruben van Bommel. What’s your take on him and the foul on Aaron Bouwman?
“Ruben is a good guy and he works hard. Last year he had a serious injury, but he’s made an amazing comeback. As for that moment: he was a split-second too late, but he didn’t intend to hurt anyone. He felt really bad about it, too.”
Compared to last season, PSV has lost some key experienced players. What’s your take on the new team?
“With Veerman and Saibari gone, we’ve obviously lost a lot of quality, but the new guys are hungry. They’re ready, and they’re going to prove it tomorrow.”