Exactly one year ago, Alphonso Davies talked to the press as an FC Bayern player for the first time. Many people did not know him at that point; today, the 19-year-old is one of the rising stars as left-back. In an interview with fcbayern.com, the Canadian talked about his first 12 months at the German record champions and his will to improve.
Alphonso Davies interviewed
Alphonso, you look back on a thrilling first year at FC Bayern. How would you describe it?
My first year with the team was great. I'm enjoying my time at FC Bayern. I think I fit in well. My German is getting better and better, I'm satisfied with my performances, and the coach trusts me more and more.
At your first press conference you said you were a bit scared of the obligatory serenade for the team. But your gig at Tegernsee went pretty well, didn't it?
Yes, that's right. At first I couldn't believe I was supposed to sing. When I saw the microphone and the loudspeaker I quickly had to come up with a song. The first thing that came to my mind was I will always love you by Whitney Houston. I tried to sing to the best of my ability.
Alphonso Davies sang for the team at the summer training camp at Tegernsee.👇
How did your colleagues react?
The lads liked it (laughing). Some of them cracked jokes but I definitely enjoyed myself.
You've been a first-team regular since the end of October, you haven't missed a competitive minute since then – as a left-back. How did the switch to the new position go?
Switching from left winger to left-back wasn't so difficult. But I must learn more about the position. I've played there for the national team and my former club, Vancouver Whitecaps, but it's different at Bundesliga level. I know my tasks, I think I'm doing quite well. But I have to stay focused and hungry.
Your predecessor at left-back, David Alaba, is beside you as a centre-back. Did he give you advice on what's important?
David is a world-class left-back. I'm glad and grateful he's by my side, and I gladly take his advice. I always try to learn, to soak in everything the coaches and other players say and to implement it in my play.
Quick and dynamic: Davies in a one-on-one with David Alaba in Doha.
Hansi Flick recently praised you for your performances in defence. Could you have imagined one year ago you'd display your qualities in this role?
At the beginning I definitely didn't expect to play for FC Bayern as a left-back. But things have changed. The coaches have seen in training I can play in the position, so they tried it. I was nervous before my first match, but that's normal for young players. I must continue to improve and learn.
What do you hope for 2020 after your terrific first year?
I think we can still improve as a team. 2020 can be a good year for the whole club, and also for young players like me. We saw how it went for Joshua Zirkzee, he got his chance and scored two goals in two matches. FC Bayern give young players a chance to play, and I'm glad about it.
Looking back: Davies' first press conference as a Bayern pro👇🏻
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