Kerem Demirbay: “An indescribable feeling”

How are you finding the national team?

Kerem Demirbay: Very good. I’m really comfortable here.

You waited two games to make an appearance – and then you scored in your first competitive game for Germany – how did you feel?

Demirbay: It’s an indescribable feeling. Only in hindsight did I really realise what had happened. You dream of playing for Die Mannschaft as a kid and you work hard with the aim of one day being able to get a run out in Germany colours. It was just a goal in the moment – an important one – but I only realised the magnitude of it after the whistle for full time was blown – and it feels amazing.

You play Mexico in the semi-final against Mexico on Thursday at 20:00 CEST. What sort of a game are you expecting?

Demirbay: It will by no means be an easy game – it’s a knockout game. Our opponents are strong, and they’ll want to frustrate us. However, I think that we’re good enough to overcome Mexico and make it to the final. That’s our goal.

We know that everyone in this Germany side can play, but is there one player in particular that’s really impressed you?

Demirbay: No, there’s nobody in particular – it’s everybody. They’re all just great characters who are very pleasant people. I tip my hat to each of them, to every player and every member of the coaching staff. I was welcomed really well and feel very comfortable here. The atmosphere of the team and how you’re treated with the team are important for footballers in order to be successful.

The Confederations Cup is a trial of sorts for the World Cup next year. What would it mean to you to be there?

Demirbay: That’s certainly my goal. I want to be there next year and I’ll give my all for that to happen. What’s important for the moment is that we’re successful here and make it to the final. Everything else will be decided during the Bundesliga season. It’s true that how I present myself here counts, but the season I have with TSG will also make an impact.

TSG begin their preseason on Monday. How does not being there make you feel?

Demirbay: Most of the boys have already enjoyed their well-deserved holidays. Whilst my teammates are getting underway with their preparations, I’ll be on holiday. It’s my birthday on Monday, which I’m looking forward to, so I can have some time to myself and recover before I return to training with TSG. However, I hope the boys get off to a great start. 

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