On the eve of Juventus’ fourth Champions League group stage match against Lille, midfielder Khephren Thuram addressed the media in a press conference. Thuram, who recently played a key role in Juventus’ victory over Udinese, shared his thoughts on the upcoming match and various other topics.
Thuram expressed his respect for Lille, acknowledging their quality as a team: “They are a very good team that plays very well. They have an excellent coach and a great playing style. We are prepared. Compared to last year, it’s the same type of possession-based game, with free players across the field, pushing forward. I’m surprised: they’ve won against two European giants. But Lille has strong players with confidence in themselves, they do many beautiful things.”
The midfielder also touched on the support he receives from his family, including his father Lilian and brother Marcus, who plays for Inter: “My father called me after the game and congratulated me, as did my brother. If you know my father, it was to tell me the mistakes I made and where I can improve. And that’s more important.”
When asked about his unique qualities compared to his teammates, Thuram explained: “We all have different qualities. The difference is that I carry the ball much more, I go much further forward, the coach asks me to do that. We all have different qualities, that’s why we are very good players.”
Thuram emphasized the team’s approach to the Lille match, stating: “We have prepared for the match as always, respecting the opponent. They are confident, we have won two games, we respect them a lot like all teams. Tomorrow we are on the field to do our best for the next match.”
Addressing comparisons to Paul Pogba, Thuram was quick to dismiss the notion of being his heir: “No, absolutely not. There are not two Pogbas. He is a very strong player, he has shown it in his career. I try to be the best version of myself, but I can’t say I’m his heir.”
