A gifted young talent, Christian Pulisic, who has appeared in 42 of Dortmund’s 50 matches last season, talks about his footballing hero, his team’s target and close friend Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in an interview to The Hindu. Excerpts:
Bayern Munich is not in good shape with lot of injuries and a poor pre-season. Do you think Dortmund can win the title this season?
It is true they had a poor pre-season, but this league is long. They have quality players to replace the injured ones. We know Bayern’s strengths and they have won a lot of titles. Our primary aim is to finish among the top three and qualify for the Champions League directly.
Any discussion on Neymar’s transfer in the dressing room?
Yes, but not much.
There are rumours about Aubameyang leaving the club. Did you make any attempt to stop him?
He has been great with me. Just being around him in training is great. I tell myself that he should not leave, but we have to respect his decision. He is a huge presence in the dressing room and I hope he stays with us.
Can you tell us about your new coach?
We have just started and are trying to understand what he wants. We are learning a lot for him. In his short career, he has done well with Ajax. I am confident the team can translate his ideas on the pitch.
Who is your footballing hero? Why?
Luis Figo. It is difficult to explain. When I was young I would watch him every weekend.
I just love watching him.
Why do players from USA prefer Germany to England?
What’s special here is Bundesliga clubs give young players a platform to perform. Training is very good here and youngsters learn a lot. I think players have seen this and that’s why they prefer Germany. Most importantly, the clubs here trust their players.
Do you see yourself as a leader for the national team in the upcoming World Cup?
I don’t put any extra pressure on myself while playing for the country. It was my dream to be part of this team. Of course, I want to lead by example. I don’t put anything more on my shoulders because of the team I’m with, and we have other great players as well.
(S. Sudarsan is in Dortmund at the invitation of Bundesliga)