On a daily basis, he is busy in the championship battles of Manchester City against Liverpool, but on the occasion of the national team break, Ilkai Gondwan joined Germany for the preparatory game against Israel. Just before, our envoy to Germany, Moti Peshchetsky, caught up with him for a crowded conversation about Israel, the appointment of Yossi Benyon, the differences between Tuchel and Flick and even Almog Cohen.
What do you know about the Israeli team?
“I know they have a new coach, which is a young team with motivation. I’m sure they will be aggressive. Playing here is an opportunity for them to prove themselves. So I look forward to a great game.”
What are their chances?
“I think it depends on us, to be honest. It depends on how we play. We are the favorites for the game, but I’m sure it will be an exciting game for the spectators. There will be a lot of situations, hopefully goals too. For us it will be a good test.”
Have you heard about the appointment of Yossi Benyon?
“Yes, I remember that game. I followed the Premier League a lot in my youth, especially after I became a professional myself. I remember him in Liverpool, he was great in England. The fact that many players know his name speaks for itself. It’s good for Israeli football.”
The game against Israel will be a tactical test for you.
“Definitely, the way we play against Israel will be a practice for the World Cup tactically and Flick’s game philosophy. The World Cup is approaching, there are not many games and practices until then. We see every game as an opportunity to improve. This is the beginning of a year we hope will be amazing and exciting.”
Do you have any tips for young people?
“First of all, I must not lose the joy of the game. From a young age I remember myself playing football. I was not focused on being a professional or making money, that was not my motivation. My motivation was to have fun, to play with my friends. Everything has to be taken, step by step. “Step by step. The people around you will see your potential and talent, from there it’s a matter of self-improvement and education. You can do it, make your dreams come true, but you must not lose the joy of the game.”
What are the differences between Tuchel and Flick?
“The truth is that there are a lot of similarities between them. We have a lot of great coaches in Germany. I had the honor of working with Tuchel in Dortmund for a year, so I know his way of thinking and the way he sees the game. What he’s showing now, last year at Chelsea, “He shows how great a coach he is. Hansi has been at Bayern Munich for a few years as head coach and he has won everything, so we are very happy to have him here as national coach. We hope he will help us win all the titles.”
Do you have a message for Almog Cohen?
“The truth is I sent him a video after hearing he retired. I wish him all the best in the world, including his family. I had the fun and pleasure of playing with him in Nuremberg, he is a great guy, he will stay as he is and hope to see you soon.”
