Interview
Ethan Nwaneri’s First Interview as a Borusse: “I’ll Fight for My Spot!”
It almost seems like scoring in a friendly against BVB helps you end up signing with BVB. Crazy coincidence, isn’t it?
“I was definitely happy about the goal. But now I’m glad to be here. It feels great.”
What was it like to make the move on the very last day of the transfer window?
“It’s definitely hectic. A lot goes on behind the scenes. But you just have to keep your eyes on the goal. And keep your fingers crossed. We pulled it off. And now I’m here.”
Exactly. It worked out in the end.
“Right. As soon as I heard about BVB’s interest and we had a meeting, everything moved very quickly. Within just a few hours, there were advanced talks going on behind the scenes. So, as soon as I found out they were interested, I was ready to make the move.”
Did you have any contact with your U21 national team teammate Jobe Bellingham?
“I’ve spoken with Jobe over the last few days. He asked, ‘What’s going on with you?’ And I told him I couldn’t say for sure yet either. But we talked a lot. And he kept saying the whole time that I should come to BVB. I’m glad we’ll be playing side by side now.”
You’re only 19 years old and have just come off a stint in France. Do you find it hard or easy to go abroad?
“I think it’s much easier now. The first time, you’re really leaving your comfort zone. It’s just uncharted territory. But now I’m more relaxed, more open, and mentally better prepared. I know what to expect by now.”
Give us an idea of what your favorite role on the field is
.““My favorite role… I think any of the four attacking positions suit me. The main thing is to be somewhere in the attack, with the goal close by. I like being close to the goal. I like being part of the build-up play. Whether on the wings or in the center. I don’t think there’s one position I prefer over the others. I really enjoy playing in any of these attacking positions and look forward to it.”
When you think of Borussia Dortmund, what comes to mind?
“A lot of things. The fans, of course. Everyone’s heard of them. That crazy stadium, with its history. But also the players who’ve been here. Players who made a name for themselves here and then continued to develop elsewhere. They all grew here as people and as men. I think that’s something great that sets our club apart.”
Do you think there will be differences between the Premier League and the Bundesliga?
“Yes, there will be. But as far as intensity goes, I think German soccer will be very similar. That’s a key aspect of German soccer. So I don’t see any major differences there. But I’m curious to see how it will be.”
We’ll be playing twice in England in the Champions League: at Emirates Stadium and at Villa Park. So tell us what those two places are like and what we can expect there.
“Both are definitely special places. Quite a few teams in England find it challenging to play there. The atmosphere is great at both stadiums. I’m sure they’ll be two really good matches. We have to be ready.”
When you think about the season ahead, what goals have you set for yourself?
“I’m here and I’m going to fight for my spot on the team. I’m going to give it my all—as much and as well as I possibly can—for the fans. We’ll see what comes of it. I’m ready to fight and sacrifice myself for the team.”
