Cologne’s most valuable share is called Salih Özcan (24). But the big question is: will the newcomer of the season stay with FC next year?
Özcan (contract until 2023) made it clear on Wednesday after training that he wanted to take his time finding his future – until after the end of the season!
“I don’t think it will be sooner. The negotiations are going through my agent, I want to finish the season as best as I can. My advisor and I also communicated that I want to call on my performance. I have no head for other things, ”explained Özcan.
BILD followed up: Is there already a trend – extend it or say goodbye?
Özcan: “My tendency is to finish the season and then we’ll see what’s next. You can’t see into the future.”
Photo: WITTERS
” data-zoom-src=”https://bilder.bild.de/fotos/salih-oezcan-l–ist-fuer-koelns-trainer-steffen-baumgart-unverzichtbar-fb1e6e863b454c3596c4334fa2c48405-79767282/Bild/3.bild .jpg”/> Salih Özcan (left) is “essential” for Cologne coach Steffen BaumgartPhoto: WITTERS
What role does FC’s idea of developing Özcan into a role model play in his considerations? “I grew up here, I’m from Cologne through and through, I still live in Ehrenfeld. I already feel like a role model for the boys who play in the youth and look up to me.”
And there is another factor: Özcan became a star under Steffen Baumgart (50). What influence does the coach have?
Özcan: “This season came about for me personally thanks to the coach. When the time comes, I will speak to the coach and then make a decision.”
Congratulations from Flick on the Turkey election
The professional has already made another choice: for the Turkish national team – and against the DFB. Özcan: “I called national coach Flick and told him my decision. He accepted that and wished me luck.”
With all the discussion about his future – “the focus is on Saturday and Gladbach, that’s what matters,” emphasizes Özcan, who has long been a real derby hero. He won all four of his duels against Borussia.
Özcan: “It’s nice to have such a streak and I hope to be able to continue it.” At the same time, however, he warns about Gladbach: “After a 1: 4, every team wants to show a different face. We meet an individually strong, but also a disgusting squad.”
