Mohammed Salisu eager for ‘important’ Barcelona clash in Champions League debut
MONACO, MONACO – AUGUST 17: Mohammed Salisu Abdul Karim of AS Monaco in action during the Ligue 1 match between AS Monaco and AS Saint-Etienne at Stade Louis II on August 17, 2024 in Monaco, Monaco. (Photo by Neal Simpson/Allstar/Getty Images)Monaco defender Mohammed Salisu is relishing the prospect of his UEFA Champions League debut as his side prepares to face Barcelona in a highly anticipated clash on Thursday.The Ghana center-back has been in excellent form since returning to full fitness this season.After joining Monaco from Southampton, Salisu was limited to just 12 appearances last term due to recurring injuries. However, he has since put those struggles behind him and now feels ready for the challenges ahead in Europes elite competition.Reflecting on the significance of the upcoming match, Salisu emphasised the importance of the game for both him and his team.”Yeah, I think this [Barcelona game] will be my debut in the Champions League, and it’s an important game for the team and for me as well, so we need to focus on the game,” he said.Monaco and Barcelona have already faced off earlier this year in a pre-season Gamper Trophy match, where Monaco emerged victorious. Salisu recognises the challenge that Barcelona poses but remains confident.”It wasn’t an easy game, but we won. You know how they play and how they have good players up front, dangerous, so we just need to go with everything we have, like we played last time,” he added.The match is set to kick off at 19:00 GMT at Stade Louis II in Monaco.
