Sommer: “There have been a lot of highlights”

In an interview, Borussia goalkeeper Yann Sommer spoke about his 300th competitive appearance for the club, the highlights from his seven seasons with the Foals and about the upcoming away game against 1. FSV Mainz 05 on Friday (20:30 CET).

Yann, you made your 300th competitive appearance for Borussia on the weekend. How does that feel?

Yann Sommer: It feels good. I’m very proud of this milestone and was very happy about it. It’s a big number. The fact that we were able to crown it with a win was even better.

You have been part of the club for a while now. Did you ever dream during those early days that you would be here for so many long and successful years?

Sommer: No, but I don’t really spend much time thinking about the future. I live in the moment, but of course it’s a great achievement. I think this is my eighth season here and I’ve been able to be part of many highlights during that time. To have played my 300th game for the club is something very special.

You just mentioned highlights. After so many years, it’s probably hard to pick out just one, but are there any that come to mind right away?

Sommer: It was definitely a huge highlight for me to join a Bundesliga club (laughs). There have been some great games, like the derby against Köln where Granit Xhaka headed in the winner. But, there have also been some unforgettable matches in the Champions League and Europa League, such as the once in Florence. There have been lots of highlights and it’s been a great time so far.

Is it accurate to say that you’re not planning on leaving just yet?

Sommer: No! My contract runs until 2023 and we’re in the midst of an exciting season, with some exciting challenges still to come. I’m looking forward to tackling those, together with the team.

As a club, Borussia are a family. You’ve also started your own family. Is it accurate to say that this isn’t just a job to you?

Sommer: Definitely. The club is very family-oriented and it’s a great place to work. At the same time, you’re pushed to be as successful as possible. That’s a good combination. As a player, it’s great motivation to want to be successful each year, together with the team. The training grounds are excellent and the infrastructure here is as well, and there’s been plenty of changes over the last years. There are lots of positives, and I’m looking forward to what’s next.

On Friday, you will travel to face Mainz. You beat Bayern and Bochum recently, and will now be looking to add yet another win.

Sommer: We need to bring in some consistency, as that will be crucial in order for us to end the season near the top. Mainz are a good challenge. They are a tight-knit team. We want to deliver another strong performance, like we have over the past weeks, in order to hopefully take all three points home with us.