Jörg, you played in Glasgow for five years. How do you remember your time there?
“That was my best time as a professional football player. We had great success, won titles and played in the Champions League. And it was a sensational team. The sense of togetherness was unique and one of the reasons for our success. I have only positive memories.”
What was your best experience with Rangers?
“I can’t boil it down to just one thing. The whole five years were a single highlight. Of course, a lot of people think of the league titles first, but as a young player, getting to know stars like Brian Laudrup or Paul Gascoigne made an incredible impression on me. The atmosphere in the dressing room was always positive.”
How often do you go back to the UK?
“Definitely five or six times a year. Rangers arrange evenings for former players with fans and sponsors several times a season, where you sit down for a meal together and have a good time. Thanks to those events, I have never lost touch with former teammates, and I go to the stadium from time to time to watch the current team.”
Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow has cult status for many football fans. What makes the atmosphere at Rangers so special?
“The fans live for the club. In Glasgow, you are born as a Celtic fan or a Rangers fan. It depends on your family. That is basically it. When I walk into Ibrox, I get goosebumps. The fans identify with the club and give them everything they have in the stands. But the players have to respond to that. If the fans realise that the players are not giving it their all, they will let them know about it quickly.”
Some Rangers fans will come to Sinsheim. What can we expect from them?
“Scottish fans love to travel with their club. Whether it’s a friendly match or a cup game in Europe. They will also get into the spirit properly and create a great atmosphere in the PreZero Arena. I’m sure it’s going to be a party for everyone involved.”
You work as an ambassador at Global United FC, a partner club of TSG Hoffenheim. How did that come about?
“The contact originally came from Lutz Pfannenstiel at the time. I love being involved in social projects and am behind the idea of Global United. They do great work there and are trying to do the right things. I have also been to Africa with Global United several times and seen various projects and it has sparked a bit more of an interest in charity work in me. That’s a good thing.”