Defender in an interview
© Imago
The transfer market is going crazy and always writes new stories. In summer, the transfer sums for the stars of international football overturned. Elsewhere there are deserving players who are not on the top of the shelf and suddenly find themselves in the lack of club. In addition to some well -known examples, Routinier Tim Knipping also caught stations in Sandhausen and Unterhaching. Sven Bauer (Lapdog) spoke to the 32 -year -old central defender about his situation.
Transfer market: Mr. Knipping, you have been without a club since summer. How and where do you keep fit?
Tim Knipping: I’ve been training at the OSC Bremerhaven since the beginning of August. There we train up to four times a week at an absolutely professional level. I would like to thank those responsible for this option. In addition, our athletic trainer made me an individual plan in Unterhaching from last year in Unterhaching, which keeps me at a top level in the areas of strength, speed and endurance. So I am always ready to get in immediately.
Transfer market: For the first time they go to autumn without preparation or training camp. How far are you?
Knipping: In terms of training, I am absolutely fit because I am in team training and use the additional time to work even more in more detail on my physical condition. It was unusual mentally at the beginning not to be in a team. I was particularly lacking the time in the cabin, but now I use the time for my further development – physically, mentally and also outside of the square.
Transfer market: A big advantage in your situation is that you could sign a contract at any time.
Knipping: There were conversations and concrete inquiries, but they were not finalized for various reasons – because clubs decide very late or that squad plans are adjusted at short notice. It is important to me that sporting project, environment and perspective fit. Then I am ready immediately, no matter where.
Transfer market: Most recently, they ran in the 3rd league in loan for Unterhaching. Which division should it be for you?
Knipping: The 3rd league is still my claim. There I know the processes, played over 160 games and know that I can help a team immediately. But ambitious regional leagues with a clear promotion vision are also interesting for me.
Tim Knipping talks about foreign transfer and future plans
Transfer market: So far they have only played in Germany. Is an engagement abroad also conceivable for you?
Knipping: In any case. That was already and is still an issue. A change of wallpaper can be exciting – sporty and personal. I am particularly appealing to ambitious leagues, which deal with climbing or title.
Transfer market: The downside down is that there will be time away at some point. Do you sometimes find that your career could be over faster than expected?
Knipping: Of course, you think about it when you don’t have a club right now. But I see that more as a drive to get the best out of me to play at a high level for a few more years.
Transfer market: With 32 you can play for a few more years, on the other hand you worry about the time after active sport. Do you already have plans?
Knipping: Yes, I deal intensively on real estate and financial planning for athletes. I know from my own experience how important this area is in a sports career – unfortunately this is often not optimally implemented. Therefore, I could very well imagine working in this area after my active career and helping other players to stand up sustainably. At the same time, I can also imagine staying loyal to football, be it as a coach or in a different role. You will see that when it is that far.
Transfer market: They are faced with a future, which is unclear at least in the soccer sense. Have you set a time limit until when your situation should be clarified?
Knipping: I am extremely motivated and at the same time flexible, but I want to be back on the pitch at the latest for the winter break. Until then, I keep fit and stay ready.
Transfer market: They were asked various times in the summer that they relegated from the 3rd division with two teams – Sandhausen and Unterhaching – with two teams – Sandhausen and Unterhaching. Hand on heart: how much did she annoy?
Knipping: Of course it was not an easy situation and you have to let it sink. But such experiences shape you. They showed me how important team dynamics, leadership and mentality are – topics that I am now even more conscious.
Transfer market: With a few weeks away: How do you look at it today?
Knipping: I see it as experience that made me stronger. You grow on such setbacks if you classify them correctly.
Transfer market: The SpVgg Unterhaching was relatively early as a relegation. Where do you see the reasons?
Knipping: There were several factors: bad luck, little consistency in the line -up and the lack of a bit of luck in crucial games. In the end we were lacking the experience.
Transfer market: They had left Sandhausen because the SVS no longer planned with them. How can you imagine such a conversation and how do you process something like that?
Knipping: This is a professional, open conversation. Of course it is not easy, but I accepted the decision and turned my look ahead. It is part of football.
Transfer market: Was there ambitions on the part of the SVS to inspire them for the fourth league?
Knipping: No, the chapter was completed after the descent through which my contract ended. It was clear to me that I wanted to continue at least in the 3rd league.
Transfer market: How do you rate your previous career?
Knipping: Very positive. I was allowed to play 86 games in the 2nd Bundesliga and over 160 in the 3rd league. This is something that I am very proud of. Nevertheless, I look ahead: I definitely want to experience some such highlights. I still have it in the tank! (laughs)
Knipping likes to think back to the second division with Dynamo Dresden
Transfer market: What experience did she particularly shape?
Knipping: The promotion with Dynamo Dresden to the 2nd Bundesliga – that was an incredible feeling and showed me what is possible with team spirit.
Transfer market: Which trainer fascinated the most?
Knipping: I had a lot of very good coaches in my career, from whom I could learn a lot on and next to the square. Everyone has brought me a bit on their way, be it tactical, mentally or in my personality. I am grateful for this development because she made me the player and person I am today.
Transfer market: Which opponent has been the toughest nut to crack?
Knipping: Simon Terodde. He was extremely clever in the penalty area and exploited any small inattentiveness.
Transfer market: Which event would you like to remove your memory?
Knipping: The two descents of last season. That was a big challenge in terms of sport and mentally.
Transfer market: How important are fans for you?
Knipping: Fans are the heart of football. I will never forget the games in Dresden in front of a sold -out house. This energy carries you over 90 minutes.
Transfer market: We would like to thank you for the conversation and wish you all the best for the future.