VfL Bochum is currently holding its winter training camp in Belek. Coach Uwe Rösler spoke with Forecasting.

On the sidelines of the winter training camp, Uwe Rösler, coach of VfL Bochum, spoke with Forecasting. He discussed the conditions in Belek, what VfL Bochum needs to work on, and winter transfers. Forecasting: Uwe Rösler, VfL Bochum traveled to Belek for training camp due to poor weather conditions in Germany. What are the conditions like there? Uwe Rösler: We had a long journey, but the conditions are very good. We have a comfortable hotel and varied food, which is also important. But the most important thing is the pitches—and they are excellent. We completed two training sessions on the first day. It couldn’t be better. Nevertheless, the preparation time is very short. What is your focus in Belek? “In my experience, we always have to work on our principles, such as pressing situations against teams with high possession. We have to put pressure on the back line. To do that, we also have to look at how we play against teams that sit deep. We also have to work on set pieces, getting out of pressure with the ball, the final third with the ball… we have a lot to work on, both offensively and defensively.”

What’s the situation with the squad?

“Matus Bero is completing his rehab in Bochum. Michael Obafemi sprained his back during a running test on Monday, couldn’t train and is therefore not available. He had an MRI scan, but I don’t know the latest results yet. Otherwise, everyone is here.”

What impression does new signing Mikkel Rakneberg make on you?

“He has integrated himself seamlessly with his style of play. He is very dynamic and fits in very well with us. Mikkel is a strong ball carrier. He is also physically strong, but still has to get used to the intensity. You can tell that it’s even more intense here than in Norway. But you can also tell that he’s willing and that he’s in good physical shape. So far, we’ve all been very impressed.”

You also brought Marcel Sobottka, a former teammate from Düsseldorf, to the training camp. In what position could he help VfL Bochum?

“It’s no secret that Ibrahima Sissoko has offers. The club is currently negotiating. Matus Bero is injured. We need someone in central midfield. I know Marcel. He’s available on a free transfer, which is also important for VfL Bochum. He’s 31 years old and has been training every day at Schalke II for the past six months. So far, it’s looking very good and I hope he shows what I know he’s capable of. Then he could be a good solution for us.“

Are there any departures on the horizon during the winter break?

”As long as the transfer window is open, you always have to expect that players who haven’t played much so far will come in and try to get a contract or more playing time at another club. The important thing is that if players leave, we have to replace them. There’s also a time limit, because everything has to make sense: for the club, the player, the agent, and the future club. There are always four people sitting at the table. It’s not that easy to get everyone on the same page.” with gp