Tobias Raschl joined the first team squad as captain of a Bundesliga winning U19 team. Always a leader during his youth team career, the then 19-year-old began a new chapter last summer. He had to fight for a place.

Today, on 27 June 2020, much later than he had perhaps hoped for, a dream came true for Tobias Raschl. In the 65th minute of the Bundesliga match against TSG Hoffenheim, he came on as a substitute at the age of 20 years, four months and six days.

"In spite of the circumstances, it was a great feeling which I have been working towards all the time. I am happy and proud. Even though the result wasn't good and we didn't enjoy a nice end to the season, it was a next important step for me," said the midfielder, adding: "It was an honour to make my professional debut for the club. Today was my goal for the whole year, even though it happened right at the very end. I have achieved my goal, it's great for me and my family, we are really happy. I'm taking a lot from this year. I have learned a lot from great players, developed further and taken in a lot - and I'll try to implement that in the future. (br/tl)