"Victory is the only option"

Girondins.com: You were in the starting line-up for the first time against Guingamp. What did you make of the collective performance? Alexi Pitu: I was impressed by the way we played, we were efficient and got the job done. I hope we can keep it up. Girondins.com: You have already made seven appearances in Ligue 2, how different is it from the Romanian Superliga? Alexi Pitu: The physical fitness levels are higher in Ligue 2, there is more intensity and speed in the game. In terms of technical skill, they're more or less equal. There are some really good players in this league.

Girondins.com: What changes have you had to make to adapt to Bordeaux's style of play? Alexi Pitu:  It's mostly been a case of adapting to the new training methods, and my new team-mates. I'm giving my all to be in top shape.  

Girondins.com: Bastia are a team on a good run of form, they haven't lost in 6 matches. How are you preparing for the game? Alexi Pitu: We always sit down and analyse our opponents in our video sessions. In training we've been working on different phases of play. We're playing at home too, so victory is the only option.

Girondins.com: Bastia are fifth in the table, and the stadium is going to be packed out, as it was for the Saint-Étienne game. How do you feel about that? Alexi Pitu: It's a pleasure to play in a packed stadium. Our supporters are with us to the very end, they've been the twelfth man in some of our victories. I love that sort of positive pressure.

Girondins.com: Have you been able to explore the city of Bordeaux yet? Alexi Pitu: Yes I've been into town a few times, it reminds me of Constanţa, in Romania, a city I know well. It's a beautiful town, I hope to be able to spend a lot more time here. Girondins.com: Can you tell us three players who inspired you as a boy?  Alexi Pitu: I'd say Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Maradona. In my opinion the first two are the best players of all time, and Maradona was really something special! I also learned a lot from my mentor, Gheorghe Hagi, one of the greatest Romanian players ever. And more recently, I really look up to Jamal Musiala, an excellent player whose physique and playing style are quite similar to my own. I'm working hard in the hope that some day I will be on his level.