Ludwig Augustinsson (27) is returning to Germany for the first time after relegation to the second division with Werder and an unpleasant farewell.
As the new player of FC Sevilla, the Swedish national team will duel against VfL Wolfsburg in the Champions League on Wednesday (9 pm / at “DAZN”). In BILD, “Ludde” talks about his role as a temporary analyst, Seville’s match plan and his lack of debut. In addition, he gets rid of a big sorry to all Werder fans.
BILD: Mr. Augustinsson, still relegated in May, now top class. Does this career leap surprise even you?
Ludwig Augustinsson (27): “I’m happy that a club like Sevilla brought me back after relegation. But not surprised. Because although there were ups and downs at Werder, I was always able to show my qualities. Also with the national team. I had been working on a move with my agent for about a year because my goal was to make it to a top European team. When the offer came, I had to take the chance. “
A chance to be happy again?
Augustinsson: “To be honest, even if the times were tough at Werder in the end, I was very happy there. I was welcomed there from day one like a family. The bitter end? That’s football and that makes you stronger! But of course I’m happy now: I’m playing for a club that can keep up with the biggest teams in Europe in the Champions League! This is a huge change. That’s why I come with the attitude of being down to earth and working super hard for my chances. “
The Werder fans were not so happy with the way they said goodbye and the announcement that they had higher ambitions …
Augustinsson: “I really hope the fans aren’t too disappointed with me. Some things could have been handled better and I should have said some things better. If I hurt some fans with it, I’m sorry. Now I sincerely hope that they will quickly return to where Werder belongs. Bremen itself has higher ambitions and they should too. Werder has to be in the Bundesliga. I wish them all the best and see as many of their games as I possibly can. “
Does LaLiga have more appeal than the Bundesliga? Atlético, Real, Barça – no top club pulls away.
Augustinsson: “I know what you’re getting at! If Bayern win the championship six game days before the end, it won’t be exciting. LaLiga is much more open than the Bundesliga, especially this year. Bavaria is currently so incredibly strong. I think it would be really good if Dortmund could play for the cup for an entire season so that interest in the league is not completely lost. Wolfsburg is currently really challenging Bavaria. Let’s see if they can do it all season …
You mention it: VfL is only three points behind Bayern. Anxiety?
Augustinsson: “We’re not afraid of Wolfsburg. In front of no opponent. But we must have great respect for them. They made a huge development: When I came to Germany four years ago, they were fighting in relegation. After that it became more and more uncomfortable to play against them. I remember their run towards the end of last season and now they started even stronger. If we were to play at home, we would still be the favorites from my point of view. But when you play away in the Champions League, it’s incredibly difficult against any opponent. We will need our best level. ”
You have already played against Wolfsburg eight times. Do you give the temporary analyst?
Augustinsson: “(Laughs) Seville’s scouting department has certainly examined Wolfsburg in many games. You are doing such precise analyzes here that the coach will not have to rely on me. But of course, if he comes up to me, I can help. Or should teammates need tips against their direct opponents. Of course, I still know Wolfsburg very well. “
Which VfL strengths would you particularly warn about?
Augustinsson: “Their offensive variability makes them uncomfortable. You have many different attack strategies. We have to pay special attention to the flanks because they have good wingers for one-on-one. And of course Wout Weghorst in the box … “
Is Weghorst the greatest danger?
Augustinsson: “He’s your main man, of course! Every time I played against him, he was a great danger to me and my defensive colleagues. He’s super good in the penalty area! He just needs one chance to meet. Even if they are generally very dangerous offensively: We have to look at them closely and always keep an eye on them. “
And how does Seville want to hurt the wolves?
Augustinsson: “Of course, I can’t reveal any details. But basically with our style of play – a dominant, technically strong and fast possession football. We can get to the top both in possession football and fast-paced play. With that we can hurt any opponent “
Champions League against a German team. Isn’t your Seville debut a must?
Augustinsson: “(Laughs) Unfortunately it doesn’t work that way! The coach knows that it would be something special for me. Playing the Champions League alone is a childhood dream. And then against a German team. That would be amazing! But he will decide who works the hardest afterwards. I accept that and give everything. There are two or three top players for every position, the internal competition is brutal. “
You are still without a minute. So did you prefer a reservist role in Seville to a regular place at a lower level?
Augustinsson: Yes, you can say that. You see: this internal competition has to be at the Champions League level. There is no other explanation for the fact that Seville has six Europa Leagues in the trophy cabinet! I knew that when I signed and wanted it too. Having to fight for every minute of action here makes you better. Of course, it’s a different situation for me than at Werder. But I like this competition and made a conscious decision to take on this challenge. “
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