BVB: Key experience with Haaland – Freiburg’s Schlotterbeck reports of a special duel

For Nico Schlotterbeck from SC Freiburg, the duel against Erling Haaland on matchday two of this season was a key experience.

“In the game I saw how good I can be,” the 21-year-old told im kicker-Interview: “I just had a good day. Because we were a little lower, it was maybe a little easier. But in this game I noticed: I can be a really good central defender and maybe I am at the moment.”

Freiburg defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-1. Schlotterbeck eliminated Haaland over long stretches of the encounter. “Since this season I have known: I can defend against any striker,” said Schlotterbeck.

When asked whether there was also trash talk during the duel with Haaland, Schlotterbeck said: “He checked me away once, we talked about it briefly. You have to be physically up to date with him, but that’s football. That does I have a lot of fun, especially since he is a fair athlete. In the end we shook hands. “

DFB team: Schlotterbeck has to wait for debut

It wasn’t enough for Schlotterbeck’s debut in the national team. Despite the nomination, national coach Hansi Flick did not use him at the international matches in September and October, in November Schlotterbeck had to cancel due to muscular problems.

“He spoke to me very openly about what he expected of me, how he saw me and that he was relatively satisfied with me. His previous impression that I have a lot of self-confidence and a good build-up game and that I am good at duels, I was confirmed, “reported Schlotterbeck about the conversation with Flick:” He told me that there aren’t that many left-footers in central defense in Germany and that he definitely wants to see me. I’m still a young player when I do If I go on my way, I will hopefully get a lot more playing time. “