VfB Stuttgart visit the Allianz Arena this Sunday for a game that always proves a treat for the fans. Armin Veh, who led VfB to the Bundesliga title in 2007, returned to the helm of the Swabian club in the summer. In the build-up to the clash between the long-standing south German rivals, the 53-year-old spoke to FCB club journal Bayern Magazin about his team’s chances in Munich and his former player Sebastian Rode. fcbayern.de presents excerpts from the interview.
Bayern Magazin: How upset were you about your team’s display in the home defeat to promoted Köln?
Armin Veh: We can’t be happy with the result. We made it far too easy for Köln and we let in silly goals. I can’t criticise my players for lack of desire, but we have to learn to be more determined and smart. If not, it could be another tough season for the club.
It’s the big battle for south German supremacy at the Allianz Arena this Saturday. VfB have lost their last 11 meetings with FCB, so how do you rate your chances of ending this dismal streak?
We can’t match Bayern in terms of the quality of their individuals. We have to be aiming for united and determined team performances, but you don’t get that overnight. It’s a process and it’s up and running, but it’s not finished yet. However, we’re obviously not going to Munich with the intention of volunteering the points for nothing. We’ll try and take something from the game.
As Eintracht Frankfurt boss, you promoted Sebastian Rode to the pro ranks. Does he have what it takes to become an established regular at Bayern over the long term?
Seppl is a good lad with great commitment and ambition. The quality in the Bayern squad is traditionally very high and the competition for places is fierce. But the first two Bundesliga matches showed that he’s certainly going to get games under his belt. I’m delighted for him but I’m not surprised, because I know all about his quality.
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