The arrival of Jürgen Klopp in Dortmund has inspired a new optimism. Now the new coach of Borussia faces his first big test when his team plays FC Bayern München on Wednesday evening (20:15 CET).
Jürgen Klopp spent nearly two decades with 1. FSV Mainz 05, first as a player, then as a coach. He quickly made a name for himself for his brilliant analysis of the game and for his cultivation of an aggressive form of offensive football. The new coach is now seeking to establish his system in Borussia.
bundesliga.de spoke with Klopp about his transfer, his work and his goals at BVB.
bundesliga.de: Mr. Klopp, what were the biggest adjustments you had to make in moving over from Mainz to Dortmund?
Jürgen Klopp: There haven't been any big adjustments to make. I received a very warm welcome by BVB, by the fans, the team and by everyone at Borussia Dortmund who is working with me. By the way, as in Mainz, football here in Dortmund will be played and experienced with a lot of passion and heart.
bundesliga.de: BVB didn't live up to their expectations last season. What are you doing to be more successful in the upcoming season.
Klopp: First, the expectations have to be set at a realistic level. Then we have to improve the defensive play of the whole squad. That seems like a pressing need given the 62 goals allowed last season.
bundesliga.de: The defence centred around Wörns (36) and Kovac (34) was the weak link for BVB last season. 62 goals allowed was the highest in the league. You've acquired mainly younger players to remedy that. Why are Subotic (19) and Santana (22) better?
Klopp: It's not about younger players or older players. Like I just said, it's about the defensive play of the whole squad. If the centre-back is constantly under fire, then the problem is with the whole squad.
bundesliga.de: How will the team's play in the EURO affect what happens in the Bundesliga?
Klopp: I think the exciting matches during the EURO will unleash more enthusiasm for the game, not least of all among the female fans. Tactically, you will most likely also see the 4-2-3-1 system in our Bundesliga matches.
bundesliga.de: Why is your squad better than they were last season?
Klopp: Because we are working very hard on eliminating the mistakes made in the past.
bundesliga.de: What is the club's goal for the season?
Klopp: We want to play better, more exciting football for our fans than was the case last season. After a match, the fans should already be looking forward to the next time nächste BVB play.
bundesliga.de: Who will win the championship? And why?
Klopp: Bayern, because they have to.
bundesliga.de: What teams will be promoted from the 2. Bundesliga?
Klopp: Mainz, and the teams second and third in the table.
Interview by Thorsten Schaff
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