Unioner Volland: “There is no saving grains here”

By Oliver Knack

And also full country (15 internationals) got off to a good start – even if it wasn’t quite as spectacular as with Gosens. After training on Tuesday, he spoke about his move, his goals and the Champions League. Volland about …

… his change: That was a lot in the first few days. Such a change is very quick. The next day you are sitting on the plane with three suitcases. And you probably won’t come back to Monaco. That was already stressful in the first week. But here in the group it wasn’t difficult to make friends. This is a tight-knit bunch.

… changes: It’s a slightly different way of playing. As a newcomer, you have to give yourself some time. Getting used to other processes, especially on offense. When I switched from Hoffenheim to Leverkusen, I was a bit over-motivated. This time I will take the time to get to know the processes.

… the Union style of play: There is no saving grains here. But if you get something into it, you can see how it works, how everything works. At 31, this is something new for me. Plus the emotional side with the fans, that’s a good thing.

… his strengths: I’m a team player, I’ve always been. I’m in danger of scoring, I’ll have my chances, I’m sure of that. But I can also hang up. Those are the things I bring in.

“National team? I’m realistic”

… the national team: I’m realistic after all these years. But things can happen very quickly in football, also internationally. But I’m not imagining the huge chances there, also because I haven’t been there for the last year or two.

… the old forester’s lodge: I’ve already been here from the away team. That was always great.

… his jersey number: I wanted the 31. But Robin Knoche has it. I wanted to buy him two cokes but he wouldn’t give them up. And the ten was still free. I’m not the most filigree player, but I already have a good CV to show for it.