Sebastian Rode on...
…the training camp: “As ever, everything’s really positive and I really like it here. It’s not far to the pitch and the facilities are superb. The weather is a bit cooler but it’s not too bad on the training pitch. We’ve trained well with thorough sessions and our schedule has been good.”
…the team: “I get the feeling the new signings have settled in really well and have already found common ground. They’re a good fit in terms of character. It’s also very positive from a quality point of view, but we’ll only find out in competitive games how we respond to pressure. As it stands, I’m confident we have a good foundation for a successful season.”
…his final season as a professional: “Never say never, but it’s set in stone as far as I’m concerned. It’s becoming more and more difficult to keep up with young players. It was an idea that matured over time. On the back of injuries, it takes more of a psychological effort to want to work your way back. I’ve made the decision to call time on my career at this level.”
We want to stay in all three competitions for a long time and challenge for the European places in the Bundesliga.
Sebastian Rode
…his aims for this season: “The last couple of years will be difficult to beat – winning the Europa League, playing in the Champions League and reaching the DFB Cup final. First, we need to reach the Europa Conference League via the play-offs – that’s something I really want. We want to stay in all three competitions for a long time and challenge for the European places in the Bundesliga. That’s what I want.”
…Ellyes Skhiri: “Ellyes has made a very good impression so far. He’s very quiet as a player and person, he’s incredibly composed on the ball and can run for days. It’s no coincidence he covered the most ground in the Bundesliga last season. It’s really good to play alongside him.”
…the Bundesliga opener against Darmstadt: “That’s an absolutely huge game to start the season. The atmosphere was great for the DFB Cup game last season. I’m looking forward to it – it’s going to be an awesome game and a new experience with 58,000 fans at Deutsche Bank Park.”
…watching on from the north-west stand: “I was there as a youngster and might return there when my career is over. My wife is way ahead of me, though. I can’t compete with her!”
