Interview
Waldemar Anton's first BVB interview: "That's what the fans can look forward to"
Welcome to Borussia Dortmund. The ink has dried, you are now part of the BVB family. How does that make you feel?
Joy, pure anticipation. I'm looking forward to getting to know the lads. But for now I'm going on holiday, spending a bit of time with my family, recharging my batteries. And then I'm looking forward to meeting the squad, experiencing the atmosphere here, especially from the fans, and sharing some incredible moments together.
How did the contact with BVB come about?
It gathered a bit of momentum in the last few weeks, it was definitely an incredible feeling because BVB are a huge club and have incredible fans. It was a very special experience for me, to have one of the biggest clubs approach me and say: "We want you!" To be honest, I had to sleep on it for a few days. But then I realised relatively quickly that I wanted to do it. I'm now very happy to be here.
How have you experienced the stadium and the Black & Yellow fans so far?
You only realise the kind of impact you can generate in the stadium when you stand in front of the yellow wall. The kind of impact you can generate at this club. It has always been loud here. I talk a lot on the pitch - but even the teammates standing next to me couldn't hear me, which is really extraordinary. But as an opponent, you don't truly appreciate it. That's why I'm all the happier to be here now, to experience it all up close.
What did Emre Can, Nico Schlotterbeck and Niclas Füllkrug have to say about BVB in the national team?
They've only said positive things about the club, what a force you can become, especially when you're winning. They've also said that it's not easy because the pressure is enormous. But from what I gathered from the lads, everyone is able to deal with it and knows what a huge club it is when you're doing well. They didn't try to persuade me, of course they left the decision up to me. But if you get on well, it's easier to say yes - that was the case right from the start. Emre, Fülle and Schlotti are also people who always want to win, just like me. That's why it was easy for me to make the choice to come here.
What type of player are you on the pitch?
I hate losing and I love winning. I'm a guy who really does everything to win a game - even when you're up against it with the clock ticking. There will never be a game where I give up. That's the mentality that BVB fans can look forward to seeing.
Why did you choose the number 3 shirt?
I was always a big fan of Pique back in the day, so that played a part in the decision. It was just a feeling I had, just like before with my number 2. Now I wanted something different and in the end I decided to go for the 3.
What are your objectives for the coming season?
I will always say that we want to finish first. I've actually always pursued that goal for as long as I can remember. It will of course be a tough and difficult road, but I think everyone wants to achieve the best possible result. I will try to do the same on an individual level, but also while working together with the others.