New signing Kevin Akpoguma: “Everyone wants to play!”

Kevin, what are your impressions after the first few training sessions with the team?

I came to Hoffenheim with the expectation that it would be harder and more complex. I also knew that the quality of individual players would be a lot higher than I'm used to. I'm really surprised at how well the team has taken me in. It's almost like I've been here for years.

Who were your first go-to guys?

I've known a few players for a while. I played with Vincenzo Grifo in the youth team at Karlsruhe and I've played with Niklas Süle in Germany's youth teams for a few years as well, so they were my first go-to guys. But there have been some more experienced players who have spoken to me straightaway like Andi Beck and Jens Grahl.

TSG has a strong focus on young players. Did that play a role in your decision to move here?

There were several factors that played a role. Hoffenheim and Alexander Rosen (head of professional football) have had their eye on me for three years. My family also lives in Rhineland-Palatinate which is close by. It's a good thing too that there are a lot of young players in the team. We have a really good mix and a good squad in my opinion. We young lads know that we still have a lot to learn but there's a healthy rivalry in the battle for places. Everyone wants to play!

At club level you've mostly played at centre back, but you've played in attack for the Germany youth team. Where do you feel more at home and where do you see your strengths?

I'm relatively flexible but I think that my strengths lie in the fitness department and I can make the most of that further up the pitch. It doesn't matter whether that's in midfield, on the wing or as a full back. I can't really realise my full potential in central defence.