20.03.2019
News-Archive

"Winning games has sped up my integration" – Almamy Touré interview

Almamy Touré joined Eintracht Frankfurt in January, made his first-team debut in February and now, in March, has been called up to the France U21 squad; accordingly, there is plenty to discuss with the versatile defender.

Almamy, you were recently called up to the France U21 squad, who face – of all opposition – Germany on Thursday. What are your thoughts?
"I'm really pleased to be called up; I hadn't really been expecting it. It came quite soon – after only four competitive games for Eintracht – so I hope things will go well."

How do you assess the first few months since your arrival?

"I'm really pleased with my first steps and appearances in the Bundesliga; I'm also pleased about settling in so well to a league that is played at a much higher tempo than Ligue 1 in France."

On the field, you seem to have integrated seamlessly. How are you settling in off the field?
"I was welcomed really well from my first day, with my French team-mates playing an important role in that. Every player was really friendly and open – we attach real importance to integration within the squad. I'm settling in well, which is making me really happy. Winning games has sped up my integration, too."

Have you set any personal aims?
"I'd like to play as many games as possible for Eintracht and contribute to the side's development. I'm also hoping for an exciting end to the season. We have a busy schedule coming up, and so the more I can contribute, the better."

Appearing on that schedule, of course, is the UEFA Europa League quarter-final against Benfica. What are your thoughts about the draw?

"We've been handed a tough Europa League opponent in Benfica. It's up to us to play well in the first leg, get a positive result and put ourselves in a good position for the return leg, when hopefully we'll decide things in our favour."