The midfielder addresses the media before the game against SK Sturm Graz

Daniel Bragança was confirmed as a starter against SK Sturm Graz by coach Rúben Amorim, whom he accompanied for a pre-match press conference on the eve of the Europa League game.

“We expect very competitive opponents who are comfortable playing at home and do a lot of pressing, but the coach has given us all the ideas to take to the field and try to win," Bragança told the media.

“We're going to face the Europa League in the best way, but we want to be focused on tomorrow's game and try to win. Being favourites is something that can only be seen on the pitch. That's where we have to show it and we have to be at our best to get the three points," he highlighted.

Afterwards, the young midfielder mentioned that the year he had spent out due to injury made him a stronger player, especially on a psychological level.

“We evolve a lot, because we overcome things we weren’t expecting. I grew both mentally and physically."

“After a very difficult year off, it has been very good so far this year. Preseason was more difficult in terms of pain, but that's completely over now and I feel pretty good. I feel prepared. Those feelings went away right from the start, when I returned to the pitch, and I already feel one hundred percent fit. It was a motivation for me that the coach praised my return, but we had several high-quality signings come in and the most important thing is that we are all prepared. We have a high-quality group and that is the most important thing.”

Bragança sees the competition in the midfield as a benefit for the team.

“I always look at it in the best way, because I have already been in the midfield with other great players. Competitiveness helps us to grow. I want to do my best and try to play as much as possible," he expressed.