Captain Friedl Talks about Bundesliga and Werder Bremen's Усовершенствование
Friedl: "It was a great feeling to be the captain of this team. But I would love to play in every game if possible."
Did Ralf Rangnick explain the reasons to you?
"We had a serious talk. The competition in my position is intense, and it's my responsibility to perform well in order to be considered for the European Championship."
How has the team improved since the game against Dortmund?
"We've managed to achieve consistency, and everyone has contributed to this success. Our morale has changed, and we feel like leaders."
What has changed in Werder recently to make them more stable?
"We had an open and honest discussion as a team, and Michael Zetterer's addition to the team has helped us solve some difficult situations. Our goalkeeper has improved our defense, and sometimes it feels like we have an extra defender on the pitch."
Do you have any problems if Michael Zetterer stays in goal?
"Pavlenka has also saved us in many games. Both keepers are exceptional. I trust both of them in the net, and they both have their strengths."
To what extent is Werder's improvement due to you?
"Everyone in the team has a role to play, including myself. As the captain, I have more responsibility, and I talk more to my teammates, which suits me."
Are you scrutinized more critically as captain?
"Of course, but what matters to me are the assessments of the coaching team and my own self-evaluation."
Did the captain's armband and the increased expectations put a burden on you?
"Initially, yes. But now it's no longer an issue. I feel comfortable in my role as captain."
Did you think about resigning as captain during the season to focus on your game?
"Not at all. It was a media issue. I would have resigned if the burden had affected me or the team."
How heated were the transfer talks during the summer break?
"Yes, there was interest, but Werder had to generate transfer fees, and talks were open and amicable."
Are you relieved that you didn't sign for Union Berlin?
"Actually, I'm happy to stay with Werder Bremen. I'm not just the captain here for a year."
Enrichment Data
Werder Bremen's recent improvement in form can be attributed to several factors, although their overall performance remains mixed.
- Recent Win Over Mainz:
- Werder Bremen demonstrated resilience and their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities by scoring a late winner against Mainz, moving them within two points of Champions League qualification places.
- Defensive Efforts:
- The team defended well in the match against Mainz, particularly in the first half, which helped them control the game. However, their defensive solidity has been inconsistent, with only one clean sheet in their last five matches.
- Inconsistent but Resilient Performance:
- Werder Bremen has shown inconsistent results this season, but they have scored in most of their games, averaging 1.6 goals over their last five matches.
- Key Players' Contributions:
- Forward Jens Stage has been crucial for Werder Bremen with 7 goals this season, helping the team stay competitive in their matches.
- Tactical Adjustments:
- Werder Bremen is using a 3-5-2 formation, which allows for width and overlapping runs from their wing-backs, giving them an edge in counter-attacks and set-pieces. However, they have faced several injuries and suspensions, which have affected their lineup.
Werder Bremen's improvement has brought them closer to the Champions League qualification places, and they will face a tough challenge against Leverkusen, one of the teams challenging Bayern Munich for the title. Captain Marco Friedl emphasizes the importance of team unity and leadership to maintain a positive atmosphere on and off the field during difficult matches.
