A conversation with Eljif Elmas
Eljif Elmas (24) has been at RBL since the beginning of the year. Last weekend, the attacker celebrated his competitive debut for the club in the 2-0 win against SV Darmstadt at the Red Bull Arena. Eljif’s game ended at halftime due to stomach and head problems.
We spoke to our number 6 about his home debut, his health, and the upcoming away game in Cologne.
How did you enjoy your starting eleven debut?
- “I’m happy to have made my first start against Darmstadt 98. It felt really good to be playing from the start again after a while – especially in front of the home crowd in the Red Bull Arena. It’s an incredible stadium with incredible fans and a great atmosphere.
Unfortunately I didn’t score from the one good chance I had. I’m very ambitious, so I was a little disappointed about that. The day was good, but that would have made it perfect. Next time I’ll do even better.
Of course I was annoyed that I had to be substituted after the first half. I was a little dizzy and had a headache, so I just felt too uncomfortable to continue standing on the pitch. After all, Baumi came in and scored the second goal straight away. I was really happy for him.”
How are you feeling, are you okay again?
- “I’m feeling good again this week. I was able to train with the team and I’m ready for the game on Friday in Cologne.”
We have to give everything.
What are your expectations ahead of the game in Cologne?
- “I don’t know exactly what to expect there. It’s the first time that I’m playing against FC Köln. But our coaching team prepared us extremely well for them during the week in the sessions on the pitch and with their analysis. I expect a difficult game. Every game in the Bundesliga is difficult.
They showed last weekend against Borussia Mönchengladbach (3-3) in the derby how strong their desire to get points is. We have to give everything, we definitely want to take the win with us back to Leipzig before the international break.”
You’ve been at RBL for a good three months: How do you like the city and the club?
- “I’m getting more and more comfortable here. The club is simply fantastic. I immediately felt comfortable. This is mainly due to the people here – whether it’s the team, staff, or employees: everyone is incredibly nice and helpful and therefore makes it very easy for me.
I’m also getting to know the city more and more, even though I’m still living in the hotel. I’m a fan of smaller cities. Everything is very close to each other, you can get everywhere quickly and can experience a lot. Leipzig is also incredibly clean and green – my dog will really like it here.”