“Change can be progress” | OneFootball

Niklas Stark is spending his fourth pre-season with Werder in Zillertal (photo: WERDER.DE)

Niklas Stark on the training camp, team dynamics and Horst Steffen

The signs of a tough morning session are clearly visible on Niklas Stark as he speaks to the media in the mixed zone, his shirt soaked in sweat. On day two of SV Werder Bremen’s training camp in Zillertal, the Green-Whites have already upped the intensity. After a hard shift, the central defender spoke to the press about...

…the morning session: “Of course it was tough – that’s exactly why we’re here. But I’m already sweating during the warm-up jog, so I’m not the best benchmark! Yesterday we were still feeling the effects of the flight, so today was really the first proper session.”

…his impression of Horst Steffen: “He’s got a clear idea of how he wants to play, and he’s working on implementing that every single day. The goal is to pick it up as quickly as possible. Everyone – including the coaching staff – is committed to following one path to success. I know he was successful at Elversberg, but to be honest, I don’t watch much football at home.”

Stark knows his way around Zillertal by now (photo: W.DE)

…the defensive setup: “As a player, you have to adapt – your favourite formation doesn’t matter. Before I joined Bremen, I was playing in a back four, so I had to adjust. Now it’s the other way around, but it shouldn’t be a problem. Defending the box is different depending on the system – who steps out and who stays, because there’s one fewer in the line. We’ll work it out – that’s what the friendlies are for.”

…his contract extension: “Both sides wanted to start discussions and saw the value in continuing. We knew where we stood with each other and I feel at home here. That’s why it all came together quickly.”

…the transition from Ole Werner to Horst Steffen: “We had a bit of time to process it. I happened to be on holiday in the same hotel as Zetti, so we were able to talk about it straight away. We had a good spell under Ole, but he also told me himself that sometimes change is needed. Change can mean progress, and that’s what we’re working towards.”

…defensive partner Max Wöber: “He’s made a very strong impression on me. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge, and when he spots something, he speaks up right away. It doesn’t feel like he’s only been here a few weeks – more like he’s been part of the group for a lot longer.”

Niklas Stark

…youngsters Mick Schmetgens and Karim Coulibaly: “They’re doing really well for their age. If the coaching staff or I notice something, we’ll pass it on. They’re open-minded and take feedback on board. They bring good quality and are showing that they’re keen to keep developing.”

…team dynamics: “Some players are more introverted, others more extroverted. It’s completely normal for little groups to form. I’m not part of the Yahtzee gang – I tend to chill out in my room, so you won’t catch me playing dice games! What matters most is that everyone feels comfortable here and can be themselves.”