Bischoff: Kimmich is one of my mentors and will accept the challenge of playing other positions

In an interview, Bayern midfielder Bischoff talked about the original transfer decision, Kimmich and other topics. He said he was eager to prove himself.

About the decision to move to Bayern

- I am a person who likes challenges. I often say that Bayern's positioning suits me very well and I am a winner. When you walk into the training ground, you will find that the players are eager to win and they fight for every ball. It all suited me and I was eager to prove myself.

Is Kimmich one of your mentors at the club?

- Of course, because he's one of the best players at his position. But I can name a lot of other players: Tower, Goretzka, Pavlovich, Gnabry, Kane, Olise - they all follow me, support me, give me advice, and that gives me a lot of confidence.

What did they say to you?

——Sometimes you get praise, sometimes you get some criticism. I know everyone wants to see you give your best on the court. As long as they do this, they will be satisfied. Then it's time to show off his skills with his feet, and hopefully they've seen that.

You prefer to play as a central midfielder, but have you considered switching to other positions for playing time?

- Currently, I feel most comfortable in the 6th position because I like to control the game. The No. 8 position is also attractive because there are more opportunities to get forward and create your own shooting opportunities. At my previous club I had the opportunity to play at left-back.

Of course, I will accept this challenge. If my playing time at No. 6 is reduced, I will choose to show my ability at left back. At Bayern, this position is actually more offensive-oriented, more like the 8th position when in possession of the ball. I also really enjoy this.

About Kompany

- Rarely have I seen a coach who can be so in control of the team and bring so much fun to training and the team. The first three weeks were crazy. He guided almost every move I made, and I almost wanted to say, "Come on, that's enough," and while it was a little annoying at the time, looking back, it helped me tremendously and I think of his words every move I make now. "Run back and always keep up!" - He left these words deeply imprinted in my mind and I will never forget them.

What kind of person are you off the court?

——I am an easy-going and relaxed person who always likes to laugh. Even before the game I was relaxing, listening to music, joking around. I consider myself a family person and enjoy spending some time with my friends. This is how I describe myself.

During the UEFA Nations League, you played for the national team. How did it feel?

——The feeling is indescribable. I think it’s every boy’s dream to play for Germany. It was a bit of a surprise because I didn’t expect to be called up. Then it felt great to be on the pitch and play against France, even though we lost.

Usually it is the U21 players who enter the national team, but for you it is the other way around. Have you talked to Nagelsmann and he asked you to play more games in the U21?

- I talked to the coach on the phone before the roster was announced. He told me that he wanted me to have more playing time at the club so that I would have a better chance of being selected for the national team again. But, as I said, I'm happy to be here now with the U21 national team and show what I can do.

Are you considering the World Cup next summer?

——Of course, it is my dream to participate in the World Cup. In order to realize this dream, I need to go all out and get enough playing time in the club. Maybe then I can show my ability and convince the national team coach.