Sven Ulreich has made 176 Bundesliga appearances and played 17 Europa League matches, but he has yet to get off the mark in the Champions League. This is about to change as the 27-year-old is set to make his maiden appearance in Europe’s elite club competition in Zagreb on Wednesday.
“It's not easy to be the back-up goalkeeper, and especially so as Manuel Neuer is the first choice. I'm glad that I can give Sven some minutes and that he can show his qualities,” commented Pep Guardiola, who did not call up Neuer for the FCB squad. “Manu has played every match, not only for Bayern, but also for Germany. I want to see Sven between the sticks and give Manu a little breather,” declared the FCB head coach.
On the trip to Croatia Ulreich talked to fcbayern.de on his anticipation, Guardiola's trust and the match at the Maksimir stadium.
Interview: Sven Ulreich
fcbayern.de: Sven, you're about to make your Champions League debut. How excited are you?
Ulreich: “I'm really looking forward to it. I've made some appearances in the Europa League, but the Champions League is something else. It's the top competition in club football. It's every footballer's dream to play in the Champions League.”
fcbayern.de: When did Guardiola inform you?
Ulreich: “The coach told me last week that I'll probably play in Zagreb. I was very pleased that he put his trust in me and that I can play again after a few months without a game.”
fcbayern.de: The result has no impact on the standings. What kind of game do you expect?
Ulreich: “It's not going to be easy. Dinamo have nothing to lose and will rev up in front of their own crowd. But we want to take the three points.”
fcbayern.de: Preferably with a clean sheet...
Ulreich: “Of course it would be great for me personally to achieve it in my first Champions League appearance. I hope that I can turn in a good display. But team success comes first.”
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