Matarazzo: “I’m looking forward to many more years with Oli”

Pellegrino Matarazzo on…

…FC Augsburg: “They are a very unpleasant opponent that has taken seven points from the past three games. They play a few more long balls under the new coach but definitely play more intensively. For us, it will be a case of continuing the positive trend. We want a certain maturity in different phases of the match and to shore up the space in behind the defence well. At the same time, we want to create sufficient chances via our attacking players.”

…the match against Leverkusen: “We were disappointed not to win the game. We saw a good performance from our team. It was definitely one of our best matches this season, hence why it’s frustrating that we didn’t get the win. We would like to learn from it.”

…Oliver Baumann’s contract extension: “It’s fantastic news for the entire TSG family. Oli is outstanding in every respect. Both on a sporting and on a human level. It’s fun to work with him. He also fulfils his role as the captain outstandingly. For me, Oli is an outstanding goalkeeper in the Bundesliga. I’m very thankful to experience him and to work with him. I’m looking forward to many more years with Oli.”

…the strong away form: “We have what it takes to be successful away from home. We can control the momentum and have the size to hold our own even in front of an opposing crowd.”

…the upcoming international period: “Wins always do you good, but of course a bit more so before an international period. Then the atmosphere during this time is even better.”

…Andrej Kramarić: “He’s on a good path. He still has two days of training, then we’ll decide whether he is already in contention for the starting XI again or will sit on the bench for now.”

…the occupation of the wide positions: “We have several options on the flanks. Marius Bülter did well in the last match, defensively and offensively. Ihlas Bebou could start on the right, Julian Justvan is currently having a very good phase in training and is also an option. There is also the possibility of changing the structure, but we’re currently very satisfied with our system.”

The personnel situation:

Mergim Berisha has sustained an injury in training and is suspected to have a serious knee injury. Further examinations have been scheduled for Thursday. Robert Skov still has Achilles tendon problems and will not be available in Augsburg; he will also not link up with the Denmark national team. Pavel Kadeřábek and Florian Grillitsch are also still unavailable. There is no news with regard to long-term injury absentees Marco John and Dennis Geiger.

The opposition’s form:

FC Augsburg have picked up seven points from their first three matches under new coach Jess Thorup. As a result, Augsburg have worked their way up the table and currently occupy 10th position.

Head-to-head record:

TSG Hoffenheim have emerged victorious in 14 of their 24 Bundesliga meetings to date. Augsburg have won only six matches against TSG in the top flight.