Ten years number 1 in Cologne. Last season, goalkeeper Timo Horn (29) suffered a severe setback, lost his regular place and suddenly went into the future as number 2 behind Marvin Schwäbe (27). But is that enough for him? In BILD Horn talks about his new role and the consequences.
BILD: Does the frustration about the new role as number 2 outweigh the desire for the new season?
Horn: “During the break I was able to adjust to my role, I called the coach again and knew in which position I was going into the new season. In this respect, there can be no question of frustration. I’m looking forward to an international season with FC.”
BILD: So a possible change is off the table?
Horn: “Of course things can always go fast in football. But as of now, I am assuming that I will fulfill my contract in Cologne.”
BILD: After 10 years as number 1, can you simply accept the reserve role?
Horn: “No. I certainly don’t want to settle for the role. The posts are now clearly distributed before the season. That’s a good thing. The coach doesn’t wobble around.”
BILD: But?
Horn: “My example shows how fast things can go. I was always number 1, then lost the role due to an injury and because of Corona and Marvin Schwäbe did well and confirmed his performance. In this respect, I am now trying to continue to attack and offer myself.”
Photo: Andreas Pohl
” data-zoom-src=”https://bilder.bild.de/fotos/trainer-steffen-baumgart-schaetzt-horns-fuehrungs-qualitaeten–auch-als-nummer-2-c3f2afa087eb4f86a0fb03d1e33aea46-80625122/Bild/2 .image.jpg”/> Coach Steffen Baumgart appreciates Horn’s leadership qualities – even as number 2Photo: Andreas Pohl
BILD: Does your new role change anything in your function as manager and vice-captain?
Horn: “That’s also why the coach wanted me to stay in Cologne. Even as a substitute, I can play a leadership role and help the lads and new players with my experience. I try to do that as well as possible.”
“I want to play for a few more years”
BILD: Your contract expires in 2023. Have there been any signals from sports boss Christian Keller (43) or trainer Steffen Baumgart (50) about how things can continue afterwards?
Horn: “Not yet. I let everything come my way and am open to everything. We have a good relationship.”
BILD: You will be 30 then. How long do you want to play?
Horn: “I feel good and definitely want to play for a few more years. I always set myself a goal of 35, so I could see how fit I was. But at the moment I’m in the best goalkeeping age.”
BILD: Are there any clubs and challenges that would appeal to you again?
Horn: “England is of course an interesting market and the league is very appealing. But I’m not dealing with that at the moment. I’m looking forward to our season and I’m convinced that we can be successful again.”
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