​World Cup Group Stage Round 3: Germany vs Ecuador — Pre-match press conference

I’m not sure if you’ve already had the chance to step onto the pitch and feel the grass, but some players who have played here before mentioned that the surface is a bit dry. What’s your view on that? Could it affect the match?

Woltemade: Yes, we’ve just had a brief feel of the pitch. From what it’s like right now, I think the playing surface is in good condition. Of course, things might be different tomorrow during the actual match, but overall I believe the pitch is fine. Whether it’s slightly dry or a bit wet, we have to adapt. Both teams are playing on the same surface anyway, so that can’t be an excuse. What we need to do is adapt quickly and focus fully on the match itself.

After two rounds, you are currently Germany’s top scorer in this World Cup. At the same time, the official Germany store recently ran into a funny issue — your shirt couldn’t be ordered online for a while because they ran out of the letter “V” needed for printing your name. It has now been restocked. Did you know about this? And have friends or family been asking you to help them get your shirt?

Woltemade: Yes, I know about it. Of course, it makes me very happy. But honestly, my friends, my brothers, the people around me, and my family already have more than enough shirts with my name on them, so I don’t need to order any extra for them.

But seeing so many people buying — or buying again — Germany shirts with my name on them really makes me very happy. For me, it’s a form of recognition and appreciation. I’m very grateful for the support and affection people are showing me. It means a lot to feel that kind of enthusiasm from the fans.

How do you deal with all the attention and discussion around you? And what about continuing as a substitute — are you really completely okay with that?

Woltemade: If I wasn’t okay with it, I wouldn’t be sitting here today. We’ve already had very clear communication about our roles. My job is to contribute to the team as best as I can — whether I start or come off the bench, it makes no difference to me. The most important thing is always that the team wins.

So far, I’ve come on as a substitute in both matches, and the team has won both games, which of course makes me happy. As I’ve always said, winning is what matters most; everything else comes after that. Our goal is to go as far as possible in this World Cup as a team.

As for my role, it has already been discussed. Every player has spoken with the coaching staff about their role. If I couldn’t accept it, I wouldn’t be sitting here answering this question. So yes, I fully accept my role. Of course, in a tournament like this, things can always change. But for me, the priority is to do my job well — and so far, I think I’ve done that quite well in the first two matches.
This World Cup has introduced a new countdown rule for throw-ins. It seems like players have less time to recover. What impact do you think this has had so far?

Woltemade: For me, it’s actually a good thing, because I usually come on as a substitute, and the most exhausting part of a match is often the first five to ten minutes after coming on. And if I remember correctly, I think two of my goals actually came just before a hydration break. So sometimes you can use that moment to catch your breath and recover a bit.
Other than that, I agree with the coach — I don’t think it has made a big difference. There are many other things in the game that are more important than hydration breaks or small time adjustments. Of course, for coaches it can be useful, because they can use that time to give tactical instructions or adjust the game plan based on what’s happening. But personally, I’m not particularly focused on it.

You are now becoming a role model for many children. How do you see that influence?

Woltemade: I often ask my parents what they think of me and how they see me as a person. For me, the most important thing is always making them proud. You know, I do have the chance now to be a role model for some children.

But it’s not just about us — it’s about everyone, especially the next generation. If our journey and our story can inspire more kids to play football or get involved in sports, that’s a great thing. Even more importantly, if it helps them stay out of trouble, develop a healthy lifestyle, and learn teamwork and a positive attitude, then that’s what really matters.

For me, that is also part of being a professional footballer. I’m very happy if I can use my influence in a positive way. And above all, it’s about helping children grow up healthily, find something they love, and work hard for it.

Bad news — Vinícius has just scored a brace and overtaken you in the top scorer list. However, the list still includes many big names, including Messi. You’ve scored 3 goals in just 58 minutes so far. Among the players on that list, is there anyone you particularly admire? Will you be watching them during the tournament to learn from them? And how will you help Wirtz break his goal drought?

Woltemade: It’s truly incredible to be on the same list as some of the greatest players in football history. If I had to name someone I admire most, it would undoubtedly be Messi. I’ve always felt he is my favourite player and the greatest footballer in history. What’s even more amazing is that, even at his age now, he can still produce those unbelievable moments on the pitch.

As I said, I really enjoy watching him play. Maybe he only runs seven or eight kilometres a game these days, but when the ball reaches his feet, he can still do things that nobody else can. I think he is one of the very few — maybe even the only one — who can play football in that way, because of his intelligence, technique, and understanding of the game. So to be on the same scoring list as him is already a huge honour for me.