Interview
Marco Reus: "The fans make this extraordinary club even more extraordinary"
What makes Borussia Dortmund special?
The fans make this extraordinary club even more extraordinary. The way they follow us to our away games. We don't even need to talk about the home games. Borussia Dortmund have made incredible progress over the past few years, have also become an international brand and have been recognised worldwide. I'm glad to have been part of it and to have been able to contribute to this. Now it's time to pass the baton on to younger players.
What defines Dortmund?
The people! They are honest and direct, they work hard. And accordingly, they want to see us give our all for the club. If we give it our all, they will forgive poor games. They live and breathe this city and this club.
Who is the greatest Borussian of all time for you?
First and foremost, I see Adi Preissler. He shaped the club in the fifties, and not just because of his goals. The "Adi-Preißler-Allee" commemorates him - if you've achieved something like that, you haven't done much wrong. Then there's Michael Zorc, 40 years at a club where he achieved incredible things as a player and as a manager. And there are so many others. Borussia Dortmund have had so many great players. Otherwise the club wouldn't be where it is today.
Are you aware that your name will be mentioned beside them when the next generation talk about the club's greatest?
No, definitely not. You've known me for a long time and know that I'm not someone who likes to be the centre of attention. I've always said that others should talk about me and pass judgement - which they've done in detail. You only truly realise what you've achieved a few years down the line anyway.
Which game do you look back most fondly on?
That's a difficult question after twelve years and seven major finals, with big wins and big defeats. I would say Malaga. That night was different, in terms of the tension, the atmosphere - it had everything.
What are your feelings as you prepare to head to the stadium today?
I don't know yet. There were so many things to do. I'm looking forward to it: the very last home game of the season, my very last game here! Hopefully it won't rain. The stadium is sold out. It goes without saying that there will be a bit of melancholy and sadness. But I've had enough time to deal with it, and we've got another huge game coming up afterwards.
What do you think about fellow Dortmund native Lars Ricken joining the board of management?
Amazing! I've known Lars for a long time, even though we've never been in close contact. He's an incredible person who has made a great journey and has always stayed connected to the club. I think he's a very, very good choice. And he has people at his side who will help to lead the club forward, to make it even more dynamic, even more popular.
Apropos Lars Ricken. 1 June would be the perfect day for another lob over the keeper...
That would be unbelievable... the main thing is the win. Everything else is completely unimportant.
Interview: Boris Rupert
The full interview with Marco Reus can be found in the next issue of BORUSSIA, which will be published a week later than originally announced on 14 JUNE due to the Champions League final.