Clear words regarding Raphael Guerreiro, praise for new signings Ömer Toprak and Dan-Axel Zagadou, and excitement about Mario Götze: Michael Zorc has given his take on all the latest issues.

"The injury hits us hard. Raphael brings a lot of quality to the team," said the Sporting Director of Raphael Guerreiro, who underwent a foot operation today and is now set to spend between three and four months out. Zorc was angry with the Portuguese Football Association. "We were surprised when we conducted our own examinations and took a close look. The results that we obtained were completely different from the statements that we received from the Portuguese medical team. It was so clear that he would need to have surgery."

Zorc excited about and for Mario Götze

With a key performer now set to be on the sidelines for the majority of the first half of the season, at least another is about to return. "We're very happy that Mario is back with us," declared Zorc. "The first impressions are great; his scores look very good." The Sporting Director did not say whether Götze, who has spent five months on the sidelines, will be ready to make his comeback in tomorrow evening's (Tuesday, 19:00 CET) friendly at Rot-Weiss Essen. "You can't ask for too much too soon. The coach will decide with the medical department whether Mario will play tomorrow. In any case, I am full of hope for the coming months."

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Zorc was also very satisfied with new coach Peter Bosz's start at the club: "It might only be the fourth day of training, but you can see he's working very conscientiously and is currently getting an overview of the squad." (br)