Soccer has no connection to this matter. - What a newcomer in Leipzig discovered this season.
Seiwald: We managed to qualify for the Champions League, but there were times when the outcomes didn't live up to our expectations. We could've done better, which is why I give it a 2 with a slight downgrade. We're aware of our potential to achieve more.
How do you feel about your personal performance this season?
At the start of the season, I expected things to unfold differently, but overall, it was satisfying for me. I improved with each training session and game. That's why I give it a 3.
What surprised you more than you anticipated?
This was my first time away from home. It wasn't always a piece of cake. It wasn't just the new club, as I've always been in Salzburg before. The transition was challenging. There was also a higher level of play and faster pace.
Was homesickness an issue?
Not at all. I occasionally miss my friends and my mom's home cooking. But it's mostly about living on my own for the first time. You need to adjust to that. However, I've discovered that I can do my own laundry. That's a positive realization. In Salzburg, I lived in the countryside, and now I'm just five minutes away from the city center.
Have you made any use of this?
Yes, I enjoy going out for coffee, meals, or shopping from time to time.
Seiwald: That's the lesson I learned from Marco Rose
How frequently have you spoken with coach Marco Rose?
We do connect, but I didn't push for playing time. He informed me of areas where I could improve and his specific expectations for me. This was beneficial for me.
In what areas did you make significant improvements?
Regarding anticipation and activity, running free without the ball. The game concept is different from Salzburg, and we want to keep possession more. And it's faster here in Germany.
What was your favorite experience?
Beating Bayern in the Supercup final! We played brilliantly.
But you didn't manage to exchange shirts with Harry Kane then...
That happened later. I still got his jersey. So it had a happy conclusion.
How's your training going until the European Championship?
We had ten days off after the season, which I spent in Salzburg. Then we'll reunite with the national team in Windischgarsten to prepare.
Was your communication with national team coach Ralf Rangnick very intense?
If anything, it was very intense. He congratulated me on my birthday and Christmas, which invariably sparked discussions about my situation. He also keeps tabs on me from time to time to check on me.
You've been a regular in the national team, even though you don't get much playing time for RB. Do you appreciate the trust placed in you?
I'm incredibly grateful for the faith they have in me, even if I'm not getting as much playing time at the club. I've always performed well in international matches, and that's why I'm included.
Seiwald: That's what left me stunned
How did you react to your teammate and compatriot Xaver Schlager tearing his cruciate ligament?
I was genuinely shocked! On the way home from Hoffenheim, he said he was hoping it wasn't as bad as it seemed. It's heartbreaking for Leipzig and Austria considering he would've been crucial for the European Championship.
How are you feeling about potentially replacing him?
I've been with Leipzig for a year now, trying to assimilate and adapt. I'm eager to make an impact this season and show off my skills.
RB has beaten Dortmund twice, with BVB in the Champions League final. What does this tell you?
These outcomes demonstrate our potential to maintain pace with Dortmund and Leverkusen. That is our goal. The success of both teams motivates us, hoping to exceed our achievements in the upcoming season.
Seiwald: That's why Sesko is staying in Leipzig
How did you convince your friend Benjamin Sesko not to leave?
You can tell he feels at home in Leipzig. He's scored in every game for the past seven matches. So why wouldn't he stay?
Did Schäfer, the potential new managing director, have any discussions with you about signing for Wolfsburg?
There wasn't any kind of meeting. I had already decided early on that I would spend another year in Salzburg before joining Leipzig in 2023.
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Source: symclub.org
