I love Portugal. Slavia knows how to develop players for TOP clubs
"Iīm very happy to be here, to greet the guys. I really enjoy it; I missed them," revealed Bah, who won the Portuguese title last season with Benfica and experienced the Champions League for the second time before being sidelined by an injury.
However, the reigning Portuguese champions wonīt defend their last seasonīs place among the top eight. They finished third in the group with Real Sociedad, Inter, and Salzburg.
I saw you in a long conversation with the head coach; what was discussed?
"Thatīs correct. The coach and I had a lot to talk about when I was here; he did a lot for me. We discussed football, life. He taught me a lot of things. It was great to see him again, talk about football matters."
Perhaps progression in the Europa League?
"Yes, I also watched a few Slavia matches in the Europa League, like the one at home against Rome. A beautiful victory. I follow it and wish the guys success in winning the title.
You arrived in Algarve a day before the match; how was your evening at the hotel?
"I went around the rooms, greeted everyone, looked forward to Osky, to Mick. Actually, to everyone I experienced here, and there are still plenty of them (laughs). Then we played cards, the usual, everything was like before."
Slavia knows how to develop players for TOP clubs.
You moved to Benfica in June 2022; have you embraced Portugal?
"Yes, life here is unbelievable; you probably feel it yourselves at the training camp. Portugal is an exceptional country with many good people. There is good football, good weather. I love it here; I feel at home. I am very happy."
You played your last match at the end of October; is your return approaching?
"I feel good, I work hard on myself. And I hope to return to the field soon."
What do you think about three former Slavia players sharing the locker room of a TOP European club?
"Itīs a beautiful thing. Itīs good for the club, showing that it can produce players for the best clubs in Europe, maybe in the world. Itīs great; we talk a lot about it together. Fantastic."
All European competitions in the collection
Last season, you more than convincingly proved it... Title, quarterfinals in the Champions League.
"It was an unbelievable season, not only because we played well in the Champions League but also from the perspective of the domestic competition. We played really great football. It was a great first year for me. But, of course, the Champions League matches were special, unique. At Slavia, I played in the Europa League and the Conference League. Now I have all European competitions in my collection. A great experience for me. And this year, we are improving; we are on the right path."
You are facing the Europa League and maybe Slavia.
"Maybe (laughs). In the playoffs, we have to eliminate Toulouse, thatīs the first task. We will do our best to perform well in the Europa League."
How did you enjoy the Slavia vs. Sønderjyske match?
"It was fun to watch my two former clubs in a mutual match. Slavia deservedly won; more goals could have been scored on both sides. Both clubs had chances. It was nice."
