Two players getting along well on and off the pitch

Erik Durm on…

… the difficulties of  “switching back” after the World Cup:
“It’s not that difficult. The World Cup was big for all involved, but now it’s back to everyday life. We want to kick the ball, want to get back onto the pitch. Three weeks holiday was enough to come to terms with the success. We are back mentally and physically, and we are happy to get started again.”

… the best reaction he has received after his return from the World Cup:
“I quickly went  back to Dortmund to pack and left straight away for home to share the joy with my parents. There was also a welcoming party in my home town which was also very nice.”

… his friendship to Matthias Ginter:
“We are both the quiet type and already shared a room with the U21 national team where we also did everything together. That’s why I’m so happy that Matthias has joined us.”

… what players learn from the national team:
“It’s impossible not to learn something there. The level is so high, there are so many top players. Everything is going very, very fast in training.”

Matthias Ginter on …

… his first day experiences at BVB:
“The team gave me a great welcome. I feel very comfortable here already, they are all super nice.”

… on his ambitions:
“Of course, coming to a new club as a World Cup winning player gives you confidence. But I’m not asking to play. The coach decides who plays. Erik and I are both ambitious. We want to give our all and develop our game here. We often played on the same side during national team training, and we also work well together on the pitch.”

… whether it has been a sort of a “test of courage” coming to BVB given the fierce competition in central defence:
“No, it’s not that. I have deliberately taken this step because in Dortmund I will be training regularly at a very high level. I’m here to develop my game, and it is no secret that Dortmund was and is close to my heart. I didn’t hesitate for a second.”