---
title: "Garde’s First Press Conference – In Words"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2015/11/05/gardes-first-press-conference-words/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Sean Brown"
section: "Aston Villa News"
published: "2015-11-05T22:34:23Z"
modified: "2015-11-05T22:34:23Z"
---

# Garde’s First Press Conference – In Words

Aston Villa formally introduced Rémi Garde as their new manager at a [press conference](https://www.avfc.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10265~5121173,00.html)this afternoon. The new boss touched on a variety of topics in his remarks to the press, including the weekend’s match with leaders Manchester City, his short-and medium-term goals as the manager and the role of supporters as the club look to improve their position in the table.

Garde began his remarks by outlining his immediate and season-long goals for the club. Fixtures come very quickly in the league, so his immediate goals were, predictably, modest.

> My main target has been to meet the players and give them confidence quickly. I want to get to know my players very quickly.

However, his goal for the rest of the season, while also very predictable, was substantially more ambitious. After his first few training sessions, he seemed confident that his squad would be up to the challenge.

> I hope to keep Villa up. This is my target, of course.

> I have learnt a lot from training. It is very important. Some players were really new for me. You have the player and the human. I am discovering about all of this. I have been happy with how we have trained.

> I am confident. If we start winning, things will change.

![Mike Hewitt/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readastonvilla.com/readastonvilla/2015/11/495386692.jpg)

Garde, his assistant Reginald Ray, and fitness coach Robert Duverne – both of whom joined him from Lyon, will face a stern reminder of what awaits them in the Premier League this Sunday when they face league leaders Manchester City.

> We have nothing to lose against Man City. They are top. We are bottom. I want my players to enjoy the game – we will make it a tough game for them.

Finally, Garde noted the key role of Villa’s supporters in the fight to avoid relegation.

> I know the fans have a big role to play. The Holte End is fantastic. I have seen it on pictures.

The Garde era officially begins this Sunday as Aston Villa host Manchester City at Villa Park.