"We have always delivered amazing games against Bayern"
Kevin Kampl on the big game this Saturday evening against FC Bayern München | Preparation during an international break | Playing against former teammates | His thoughts on a tough Champions League group
Interview with Kevin Kampl ahead of Leipzig’s clash with Bayern
On Tuesday, our midfield maestro Kevin Kampl spoke after an open training session about the game against Bayern and the task that faces RBL in the UEFA Champions League.
Kevin, how has the last week been, considering how many players have been away on international duty?
“For the players that stayed here it’s always good as we get a few days to switch off for a bit. Then when we train, we focus more on the physical side rather than anything technical. Now the other guys are coming back and we’ll have a few days to train together.”
As an experienced player, what can you pass on to the younger national players when they return to the team after the international break?
“I was always really frustrated coming back from international duty because mostly we would lose (he laughs). You have to focus immediately, however, especially before a big game against Bayern München. Even if you’re exhausted you have to use the time to recover well, because we need everyone for the match.”
How would you rate the season after the first three games?
“We were hoping for a better start and we know that the results haven’t been ideal. We’re also about to play two of the best teams in the world in Bayern and City. We have always delivered amazing games against Bayern, however, and if we perform in the way we can, there is no reason why we can’t win the match. The worst thing now would be to panic.”
Lothar Matthäus said recently that you need experienced players in games like these, and he mentioned you. Is that something to be proud of?
“I heard about that and of course I am honoured, as it’s coming from such a great player and idol. I had problems with my ankle over the last few weeks so I couldn’t play a lot. Of course you need that kind of player on the pitch, but I think we have showed over the last few seasons that we possess a good mix of youth and experience.”
The fans will spur us on
Can the team go out and get three points on the weekend?
“We are a young, hungry squad. In big games anything can happen and you don’t know how the game will play out. On top of that, we are playing at home in front of 34,000 spectators and the fans will spur us on. Moreover, we want to annoy our old coach.”
What do you think of Bayern this season?
“They’re really strong again and are one of the best teams in the world. They have another top coach in Julian, and Dayot and Sabi are both amazing additions. Of course it’s going to take time for everything to come together, but Bayern will set the standard again.”
If Marcel Sabitzer takes part on Saturday, how will you deal with him on the pitch?
“For 90 minutes we will forget that we are friends. Sabi and I have a good relationship and in Salzburg we even lived together. On Saturday, however, everyone just wants to win for their team. Afterwards we will remain friends.”
After Bayern you play Manchester City in the Champions League. What kind of impact can you make in the group?
“City also have one of the best teams in world football. They have a lot of quality, and on paper you’d say that PSG and City should progress. But we can surprise people and we have it in us to upset any team. We will give everything to get out of the group because otherwise there is no point playing.”