Nnamdi, you won the DFB Cup opener in Braunschweig – how do you reflect on that match?
“The opening period was difficult, but we implemented the coach’s plan well – particularly in the second half. We stayed patient, played our game and after we broke the deadlock, it all went smoothly.”
You’ve completed your first major summer training camp with the Eintracht first team, which included the tour of the US. Do you feel properly settled now in the heart of Europe?
“I think I was already on the right track during the second half of last season. I made my Bundesliga debut and feel very happy in Frankfurt at the moment. I’m really enjoying every training session. The training camp was obviously a little more intense, a little bigger, so you could say I’m properly settled now.”
What have you made of your new defensive colleague Arthur Theate over the past few days?
“He’s a great guy! Arthur’s very likeable, he’s an impeccable character and he’s already very vocal on the pitch. Everyone can see he’s a great player, otherwise he wouldn’t be here.”
I’m working hard every week to be given a chance, whether that’s from the bench or in the starting XI.
Nnamdi Collins
You’ve trained alongside Akanji and Hummels in Dortmund, and with Hasebe and Koch in Frankfurt. Did any of them leave a particular impression on you?
“They all impressed me in their own way, and they all have qualities I can learn from. If I had to pick one, it would be Mats [Hummels], because he has an incredible number of strengths. His CV speaks for itself, but Robin [Koch] is also fun to work with on and off the pitch. He’s a consummate professional.”
Back to the present day: You begin your Bundesliga campaign at your former club Dortmund. You were in the matchday squad back in March [on Eintracht’s last visit]. What would it mean to play your first game at your former home?
“It would be an awesome experience, especially if I could help Eintracht – where I’m incredibly happy – out on the pitch. I’m working hard every week to be given a chance, whether that’s from the bench or in the starting XI. But even if I’m not, it’s important that we perform as a team and bring home the three points. Personal destinies always come last – it’s a team sport.”
