Ristic: "We know what they expect from us"

Ristic is one of the new faces of Benfica 2022/23. Already in England, where the squad led by Roger Schmidt starts this Friday, July 8, a training camp until July 14, the player made it clear that the group is aware of the fans' expectations and the club's competitive demands. 

"The expectations are always high at this Club. We’re used to it. It’s nota race against time [the 1^st leg of the Champions League 3^rd qualifying round is less than a month away], but we know what they expect from us and that we got to be focused, that’s what we are doing", assured Ristic, when arriving at St George's Park.

The work is hard in the pre-season, as told by the former Montpellier player.

"[The preparation period] It’s being intense, maybe one of the most intense I’ve ever had, but that’s the way it is, so that we can be ready for the big challenges we have ahead. I’m very pleased with the way things are going so far. With the coach and the staff. My first impression is that we know exactly what we want, what we want to achieve and there’s no doubt that we work hard to achieve our goals", declared Ristic. 

Ristic is determined to be "a part of the team" and "pleased" with the way things are going in the first days of work with Benfica.

"Just like any player, I always work hard and give everything to be successful. And being successful is to be a part of the team and to play. That’s my goal for sure. I’m pleased. We have a few days here and we have a long way to go, but things are going great so far".