Neven Subotic is back after eight and half months on the sidelines. In an interview, he talks about his foundation, his physical condition and his joy when Germany won the World Cup with Mats Hummels in the team.

Neven Subotic on …

… his work for his foundation:
“Apart from BVB, this is the most important thing in my life. This summer we were in Ethiopia. When you run a foundation, it is important to see for whom it was established. We went to visit five wells we had donated, and saw the positive effects they have: access to clean water close by. Children now have more time for school as they no longer have to run around for hours to get water. The work for the foundation is great fun and a motivation for life, because we are on the sunny side of life.”

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… future projects:
“The goal is 100 percent hygiene in the short and medium term. There are enough schools, but there is not enough clean water. The donations will focus on that.”

… on his return to full training four weeks ago:
“When I think back to the first day of training after the long break, there are few things I can compare it to. I felt like a 10-year-old boy going to Disneyland.”

… on his current physical state:
“I’m no Superman. But I also won’t let myself be distracted by minor problems. I know that after an injury like that you can be fit, but not 100 percent fit. But on the whole, everything’s fine. I can walk, sprint, and fly into tackles without fear.”

… on the return to his old self:
“It’s a difficult thing to assess. I think I’m in top shape as I had long rehab programme. For two months, I couldn’t do a lot, but it has gone steadily uphill since then. I worked through the summer and returned to training in top shape. What’s missing is competitive action as preseason friendlies are nothing like Bundesliga games. I have some catching up to do in this regard. Only then will I know where I really stand.”

… on his feelings while watching the World Cup final:
“I was so happy. We are all delighted for them. I’m very proud that these lads belong to us.”

… on the new competition in central defence:
“I would have been annoyed had the club bought a cheap player [instead of Ginter]. Papa had a strong World Cup, Mats was one of the best players of the tournament. This shows the level we have here. It’s also good for me as 99 percent will not get me to my goal.”