“Mr Wembley”, we missed you! Legend Arjen Robben graced the “FC Bayern Watchparty” on YouTube and fcbayern.com for the Bundesliga top-of-the-table clash at Borussia Dortmund on Saturday evening, which the Reds won 3-2. In an extensive interview from his office, the 37-year-old spoke about matters such as what he’s been doing since retiring, the Champions League final, his former teammates, a testimonial, the big match against BVB and much more. On the one hand, the former winger appeared very relaxed in the company of his family; on the other, the Dutchman – who regularly impressed in meetings against Dortmund with 11 (mostly very important) goals in 22 games – still looked in top shape. We’ve rounded up the best statements from Robben, who still talks of “our players” in the context of Bayern.
Robben on new responsibilities
“It sounds a bit silly but I’m not doing much at the moment apart from a lot of sport myself. Then after the winter break, I’ll be taking over as coach of my oldest son’s team. Generally, though, I’m taking my time and trying to get a bit of distance from professional football. I’ve received a lot of offers recently – related to football or television, for example – but turned down everything. I just want to enjoy time with my family for now. We’ll see what happens in the future.”
Robben on his career
“I pretty much only think back when I’m asked about it. I’m generally not the kind of person to reflect a lot. Everyone’s said to me: your career will get nicer with each year that passes after its end. I live in the here and now. I’m basically very grateful for the career that I had.”
Robben on contact with former Bayern teammates
“It was a special time in Munich and there are players who were there with me from my first to my last day. Franck Ribéry and Philipp Lahm are just two examples, but there are other players who I keep in regular contact with.”
Robben on Robert Lewandowski
“To score so many goals is crazy – a big achievement in modern football. Lewy is a machine. It’s impressive how fit he is and how rarely he misses matches.”
„I just want to enjoy time with my family for now. We’ll see what happens in the future.”
Arjen Robben
Robben on his signature move
“These things emerge over the years, through practice, practice, practice and a lot of games. In my last year in Madrid I switched from the left wing to the right, where I stayed in Munich, so it actually crept it quite slowly.”
Robben on a possible testimonial
“The Bayern fans know me as an open and honest person. And I don’t want this to come across wrong, I’m not saying I don’t need a testimonial, but I’m not a big fan of them. It’s all a show. I prefer it when it’s natural, spontaneous. That’s nicer. My testimonial match was simply the one against Frankfurt.”
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