Marco, on Wednesday you’ll be playing at the stadium of FC Union Heilbronn – how much are you looking forward to the visit home?
”Of course it’s nice to return home. I only ever represented Heilbronn at youth level and so never got to play in the big stadium, but it’s still not like any other friendly match. My family and a few friends will be there. I’m looking forward to it.”
You spent last season out on loan at SpVgg Greuther Fürth. What did you make of your time there?
”The idea we had of the loan worked out perfectly. It was an enormously important year for me, both on a sporting and personal level. I played almost all the time and continued to develop. For the first time in my life I was a bit further away from friends and family and had to leave my comfort zone. At a new club, you have to prove yourself all over again – and I managed to do that.”
Now you’re back at TSG, and have been in training for the past week and a half. What are your impressions so far?
”It’s really nice to be back here. I know most of the lads from before. That makes it easier for you to bed in. We want to make the most of preseason training to play our way into form. There’s a good atmosphere within the team and that builds excitement for the season to come.”
What are your personal goals for the campaign?
”I would obviously like to play as much as possible. My year in Fürth showed me how important that is for my development. Of course everyone wants to be out on the pitch, but I’m really committed to earning my place. I want to prove myself and show that I deserve to be picked by the coach.”