“Give something back to our fans” | OneFootball

Timothy Chandler looks ahead to the season finale and an “awesome atmosphere” against Stuttgart, assesses 2025/26 as a whole, his role, and discusses his future with Eintracht.

Timothy, what’s the feeling this week?“A very good feeling. It’s still all to play for. A good end to the season is important for us as a team but also for us as a club. We’re up against strong opponents. We’re determined to win, Stuttgart are determined to win and I’m expecting an awesome atmosphere. We’ll do our very best to get a good result.”

In 2023, 2024 and 2025, there was always a lot at stake for Eintracht in the final match of the season – and every time you reached your goal. What makes you optimistic that it will work out again in 2026?“We have a great home match coming up and I know that our fans will give it their all again until the last minute, even though it’s been an underwhelming year. We really want to give something back to our fans, which makes me positive that we’re going to deliver and achieve our target again in the end.”It’s not just a decisive match for us but also for Stuttgart, who are battling for a Champions League place – every point counts. Does that fact make the encounter even more special?“Yes, because nobody can say afterwards that we didn’t give our all because everything was already decided. Both teams must win, it’s going to be a real battle. That’s also why I’m really looking forward to it.”

Stuttgart come to Frankfurt on the back of an impressive win at home to Leverkusen, with strikers Deniz Undav and Ermedin Demirovic in particularly good form. What do you make of the opposition?“I expect a fast and physical game, which will swing back and forth. There’ll be lots of tackles, everyone will want the ball. We have to be prepared for that and do just that on the pitch.”

The coach has almost a full squad to pick from, he’s publicly called on the more experienced players recently. You’ve been in the matchday squad in three of the last six Bundesliga games. What role has Albert Riera defined for you?“The coach has said to me that I’m training very well. However, I also know I have players like Robin, our captain, and Rasmus ahead of me – I accept that, he knows that. I’m pleased that he recognises my training performance – that’s important and respectful. The coach has also told me he needs my experience, not least because I know how the club ticks. He leans on me for that too.”

Have you been required in the dressing room more than ever before this season?“Yes, I think so. It’s been a difficult year, also for me. I talk and communicate a lot, and try to move things in the right direction. I enjoy doing that, though, I’m happy to do that. I just hope that we can grind out a good end to the season on Saturday.”

You love coming here every day. Your contract runs until 30 June 2026. What does the future have in store for you?“The future certainly has Eintracht Frankfurt in store for me. We’re in good discussions. I feel in top shape and I don’t want to leave the boys alone yet – and they don’t want me to either.”