Every year since his arrival, it’s been the same thing. Danilo does not make noise, and is rarely included in the team compositions imagined by supporters and observers. And then, every year, Danilo finishes with remarkable playing time and solid performances. Praised for his attitude, his state of mind and his versatility, the Portuguese, aged 32, has become one of the pillars of the Ile-de-France club. He has even already worn the captain’s armband.
And it filled him with ” pride ! I arrived at PSG three seasons ago and here I am with the captain’s armband… It’s… (he searches for the word)…” Recognition? “Yes, I can’t find the word in French but “reconnaissance”, It’s good (smile)! »he declared in an interview with France Blue. Often reduced to the status of a team player, to collective values, Danilo imagines that this is mainly due to his honesty. “I think I’m…honest, honest in the way I say things and in the way I work. »
Important on the pitch and in the locker room
Danilo, an executive who takes responsibility, and who plays a real role in the balance of the locker room. “I always try to be friends with all the players. To be there for everyone, to help, to give advice. My role is based on experience because we must not forget that we have a group, a very young squad and that we need some experienced players”, he assures. He is in particular a valuable relay for his Portuguese comrades (Nuno Mendes, Ramos).
Carrying between midfield and defense for several seasons now, he has taken the plunge, and no longer hesitates to help out in central defense, where he has been most aligned this season by Luis Enrique. “Mentally for me, it’s not a problem to go back to defense because now, I like the position, I feel good there and when you’re happy, it’s always easier. » Starting in PSG’s last two matches, he is applying for this same status during the round of 16 first leg of the Champions League, against Real Sociedad on Wednesday. It certainly benefits from the absences in this sector of the game, but it is much more than a simple alternative.
