He is one of three players in the U21 Germany side who play abroad and has been called up to Horst Hrubesch’s team for the first time for the games against Italy in Paderborn on Friday (20:00) and England in Middlesbrough (20:45 CET). In an interview with DFB.de, Arsenal FC’s Serge Gnabry talks about the call from the manager, his current fitness levels and his goals for the next few months.
DFB.de: Serge Gnabry, how important is your call up to you?
Gnabry: I was so excited to receive the call from Horst Hrubesch. It’s a great honour to become a part of this squad. Even more so when you see the quality of footballers here.
DFB.de: How well do you know your teammates?
Gnabry: Really well. I know half of them from playing for the junior national teams and clubs. Everyone has welcomed me really well and I am looking forward to this week.
DFB.de: Have you been in contact with the DFB for a while now?
Gnabry: I’ve been in touch with Horst Hrubesch for years. Hansi Flick also came to England recently to visit me. They’re small gestures but it shows that your are being noticed and looked after.
DFB.de: How difficult has it been to be injured these past months?
He is one of three players in the U21 Germany side who play abroad and has been called up to Horst Hrubesch’s team for the first time for the games against Italy in Paderborn on Friday (20:00) and England in Middlesbrough (20:45 CET). In an interview with DFB.de, Arsenal FC’s Serge Gnabry talks about the call from the manager, his current fitness levels and his goals for the next few months.
DFB.de: Serge Gnabry, how important is your call up to you?
Gnabry: I was so excited to receive the call from Horst Hrubesch. It’s a great honour to become a part of this squad. Even more so when you see the quality of footballers here.
DFB.de: How well do you know your teammates?
Gnabry: Really well. I know half of them from playing for the junior national teams and clubs. Everyone has welcomed me really well and I am looking forward to this week.
DFB.de: Have you been in contact with the DFB for a while now?
Gnabry: I’ve been in touch with Horst Hrubesch for years. Hansi Flick also came to England recently to visit me. They’re small gestures but it shows that your are being noticed and looked after.
DFB.de: How difficult has it been to be injured these past months?
Gnabry: It’s not easy. To be injured for so long is not fun. As a footballer you want to play football. You need to fight your way back. I’ve been back in training for a year and a half now and am making positive steps. I’m still lacking match practice though
DFB.de: England and Italy are top opponents. What are your predictions for the two friendlies?
Gnabry: Italy and England have both qualified for the European Championships. They won’t take things lightly against us. I will try to do my best in training and I hope that I can make the most of my chance.
DFB.de: Horst Hrubesch has said he wants to experiment a little. This could be your chance...
Gnabry: Yes, that’s why we are all here. In the summer there’s a big tournament and this team will do everything it cans to win. I want to try and impose myself on the team and I hope I can reach 100% fitness quickly.
