Kounde: It's better for Sevilla to play a team like Manchester United, they'll leave space for us

Jules Kounde believes Sevilla can benefit from playing a team like Manchester United in their Europa League semi final.

The French defender has enjoyed an impressive first season in LaLiga Santander following his move from Bordeaux last summer.

After beating Wolves in the quarter finals, Kounde is looking forward to facing Manchester United and spoke to MARCA about what to expect from both teams.

What do you think about Manchester United?

I'm very happy. We're playing football to play against the best teams. They're a great team with very good players. We're confident. We know that we've got good players too. It's going to be very difficult for us and for them too. We're ready.

What kind of game are you expecting?

They're a team who like to play and it will be less cagey than against Wolves. They're going to give us space. It's better for us when we play against a team that gives us space because we can take advantage of it. They have quick and powerful players up front. It's a good challenge for everyone.

Paul Pogba is an icon for young, French players, right?

He's an important player, a global name. He has lots of quality. He's one of the best central midfielders in the best and he's a key player for France, who he won the World Cup for as a starter. They have very strong individuals, but we're focused on the team and ourselves. We know what United represent across the world. They're a big name.

What about Anthony Martial?

I've seen him play many times. He's a very good, very complete striker - powerful, quick, skilful on the ball and I'm sure we're going to have to be very aware, like with Adama, although he's got another level of power. Diego [Carlos] and I will have to talk a lot. We can't give him space.

Is there a favourite?

I don't know if we're the favourites. I don't think [we are] for the majority of people, but we don't care. No one has as much hunger to get to the final and win the trophy as we do. We're going to leave it all on the pitch. In the end, we can beat any team on our day.

You and Diego Carlos have admirers from all over Europe.

It's always good when other teams are interested in you, whether it's Diego or me. We're very focused on winning this trophy. I'm not looking at other teams. I'm happy at Sevilla. We're going to play in the Champions League next season and everyone deserves it. I'm very focused and very happy here.

We'll see in the future...

Yes. It's something that I control, but sometimes there are things that don't depend on me. I haven't got my head turned.

Are you begging Ever Banega not to leave?

I'll tell you one thing [laughs]. After the game against Wolves, I said to him: 'Stay here - if you want, I'll give you part of my salary to get you to stay'. He's such an important player for us. He likes the big games. It would be a good farewell to leave with this trophy because he deserves it.