After the 4-1 win over Manchester United and both of the arduous training sessions prior to the match, the team was able to enjoy a relaxing weekend in Shanghai. Saturday's training was aimed at recovery, while the players were completely free from sporting obligations on Sunday.

The tour of China is also helping the players to get to know one another. On Saturday evening, Spanish speaker Gonzalo Castro sat together with Marc Bartra and Mikel Merino as well as Sebastian Rode around a table at the gala event being held at a rooftop bar in Shanghai, to which main sponsor Evonik had invited 180 guests. The attendees were able to enjoy a breathtaking view across the metropole's impressive skyline.

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It was the crowning glory of a long day characterised by a full itinerary. Kit supplier PUMA welcomed Roman Weidenfeller and Marc Bartra to their Shanghai outlet. 200 Fans turned up to see them, although no announcement about the event had been made. The visitors were able to get autographs, play a question and answer game, and could also take a virtual tour of the Signal Iduna Park, which included a 360 degree view of the stadium with accompanying acoustics.

At the same time, Evonik had organised an event for 80 socially disadvantaged children, to which Sven Bender and Sokratis went. BVB Partner HIS had flown in a number of fans from Japan for a 'meet-and-greet' with Shinji Kagawa.

Hans-Joachim Watzke and Evonik boss Klaus Engel presented to the media on their corporate approach to the Chinese market, focusing on the BVB Evonik Soccer School. "Asia is our core market globally speaking", said Watzke of the Black and Yellows' international plans and clarified: "In Asia, China does not miss out on anything." In the Middle Kingdom, a current survey suggests that 30 million Chinese people are already interested in Borussia Dortmund.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Shinji Kagawa had a lot of fun participating in 'speed-interviews' – the questioner was replaced every 10 minutes.

Last but not least: The Chinese BVB Fanclub presented Kalle Riedle and mascot EMMA with particularly special exhibits, namely, every BVB kit since 1966! A collection to get every BVB fan's heart beating faster.

And a final note on the playing staff: Matthias Ginter has now overcome his stomach infection completely and has since arrived in Shanghai. (br)