Maier: “I’m simply very excited for the new season”
Augsburg complete first session after training camp
First Team
20.07.2022, 13:59
On Wednesday, FCA completed their first training session since the Scheffau training camp. Due to the extreme heat, the public training took place in the morning. After the session, we spoke to Midfielder Arne Maier about…
…the tough training session in the heat: “It’s tough on the body and on the mind in this heat. We want to develop our game and that’s why we train every day.”
...developing a more possession based game: “We have worked on that in the training camp and we are working on it every day here. We will try and put it into practice on the first matchday.”
...the approach of the new coaches: “We understand the coach very well. We had good sessions during the training camp. He has clear ideas about how he wants us to play and we of course try to put it into practice. He has a clear plan.”
…a tough season ahead without an alleged underdog like Fürth: “The year before Fürth, Schalke got relegated and no one expected it. Every season is exciting and all the fans are buzzing about another season in the Bundesliga.”
…a squad without too many changes: “We’ve all known each other for a long time but the transfer window is still open and we don’t know what will happen. Mainz fought against the drop two years ago and they are almost identical as a team and are much better off. But of course you have to change a few things in order to improve.”
…his role in the team: “So far, I have only played against Eichstätt and for a half against Schalke, because I had a minor knock. I have had good talks with the coach and he is open with every player. I will of course do everything I can in order to help the team.”
…moving to a back three: “We played with a back three in some games last season and we play with a number six and a number eight, so it isn’t much of a change for me. We want to play with the ball and that suits me. I am simply looking forward to the new season.”
…the difference to last season: “I have taken part in the full preparations, unlike last year, when I was first at the European Under-21 Championship and then at the Olympics. You can see each day how the team is coming closer together, and this is something you can build on.”
…his fitness: “I can’t feel the knock anymore, the coaches and the physios have done a great job.”
…the extreme heat: “The public training session was moved to the morning; otherwise we would’ve trained outside in the afternoon. I would rather train in the sun than in the snow. Obviously it’s hard but it’s somehow also a luxury. We will also have a session in the afternoon, so there won’t be much time to relax in the pool afterwards. After lunch a tactical session will also take place.”
…the start of a new era: “We are excited that the ball is finally rolling again. Friendlies are quite different to Bundesliga games or DFB-Pokal games. The team is up for it!”
