Niko Kovac on the start of the tournament: „We want to continue our performances from the Bundesliga“ | OneFootball

Niko Kovac on the start of the tournament:„You can already see that the South Americans and Europeans will dominate this tournament. I‘ve already seen some good matches – PSG against Atletico Madrid, Palmeiras against Porto. You could see the intensity in these games, the quality. The quality of football is good, despite the timing of this Club World Cup.“

... the clash between South America and Europe: „It seems that this tournament is perceived very differently in South America. The enthusiasm in Brazil, Argentina, or even Mexico is currently much greater than in Germany or Europe. Personally, I think it’s truly a highlight, and we want to approach it accordingly. I hope that it also comes across in Germany that this tournament has value because it is important to compete with the best from other continents. I expect the South Americans to play a very strong role. There is an incredible amount of quality in these teams, and we will certainly see that tomorrow.“

... the opponent Fluminense: „Brazilian teams, including club teams, are technically very strong. This team is very experienced. It is a Brazilian team that likes to have possession and slows the game down. Individually, they are very strong. We expect a tough match. I am convinced that my team knows exactly what is needed to beat this top team.“

... the goals for the tournament: „We are athletes; we want to compete and win every game. That’s what we’ve learned from a young age. No one comes here and doesn’t want to win. We are proud to be one of two German teams representing Germany, but also our black and yellow colors. We want to be successful and continue what we showed at the end of the Bundesliga season. We want to win as many games as possible, ideally seven.“

... the preparation for the match: „It’s something completely different to play at 12 noon. You have to get up very early, combine breakfast with lunch, and then spend only a short time in your room. Then there’s a final meeting, and it’s already time to head to the match.“

... new signing Jobe Bellingham: „We are all happy that he is now with us. He is completely fit. To get ahead of things: He will not start tomorrow because the one week he has been with us is not enough to internalize all our processes and principles. Additionally, those who have played the last Bundesliga matches so successfully recently have priority. But he will certainly get his minutes during this tournament.“