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Kevin Volland: "It was absolutely crazy"
Kevin, after almost 150 games, you’re saying goodbye to TSG and Kraichgau. How do you feel about the move?
Kevin Volland: This step wasn’t easy for me. I’ve experienced some brilliant years here and made lots of friends. The club is close to my heart, it’s a fantastic club with which I’ve been through lots. Two times we staved off relegation; two times we had really good seasons. There are plenty of memories. The last matchday in 2012/13 in Dortmund, the relegation play-off against Kaiserslautern – it was absolutely crazy. TSG brought me from TSV 1860 München into the Bundesliga. I scored my first top-flight goal. That’s a moment I’ll never forget. This season there were also emotional moments: the quick goal against Bayern, the last-minute equaliser against Köln and also the last matchday. Saying goodbye to and thanking the fans, who have supported us in this difficult campaign, was terrific.
However, you have now decided to move to Leverkusen...
Volland: After four years with TSG, it’s time for something new; time to take the next step. I’m proud of how far I personally and Hoffenheim have developed over the past few years. However, I’ve reached the decision to move and continue to progress. In Leverkusen I have the chance to play in the Champions League and to test myself week in, week out against the best in Europe. It’s an opportunity I want to take.
Are there people who you would like to thank as you bid farewell to the club?
Volland: First and foremost, I have to thank director of first team football Alexander Rosen. He stood by me in both the good and bad times and offered advice and assistance. Of course, I also need to thank the manager. And I especially need to thank the fans. There are lots of people, who have supported me through the years at TSG, had an impact on me and have helped me to develop. Dietmar Hopp is obviously included in this list. There are so many others too that I can’t name them all now.
You mentioned the TSG fans. What did you make of their support?
Volland: We’ve always had a great atmosphere in the stadium. Our fans have helped us through two relegation battles with their loyalty and support. I’ve always felt completely comfortable here in Kraichgau, at TSG and in Heidelburg.
Have you already had time to think about your first game against TSG?
Volland: No, but that will obviously be something else when I travel to an away match in Kraichgau with Leverkusen and see so many familiar faces. TSG was my home for four years.
