First Team

“I love schnitzel”

An interview with Rogerio ahead of the trip to Bayer Leverkusen.

Der VfL-Wolfsburg-Spieler Rogerio lächelt auf dem Trainingsplatz.

Left-back Rogerio has wasted little time in demonstrating his qualities since joining VfL Wolfsburg in the summer. The Brazilian suffered a thigh muscle injury against Union Berlin in February but has returned to training in time for Sunday’s trip to Bayer Leverkusen. Ahead of the clash at the BayArena, Rogerio spoke to us about his recent injury, his favourite food and the game against the Bundesliga leaders.

Rogerio, how are you doing after your injury?

Rogerio: “I’m fine. I was able to train with the team again on Wednesday. The focus this week has been on building up my legs to avoid risking further injury and drawing out the recovery process. I feel fit now and I’m hoping to be available for the rest of the season.”

You joined VfL last summer – how do you reflect on your first few months at the club?

Rogerio: “I’m very happy here in Wolfsburg. The first few months were always going to be a challenge with a new language, new club and new style of play. The Bundesliga is different to Serie A in certain aspects, but I like those differences and they suit me. The important thing is that I’m happy here. I’m improving every day, particularly when it comes to communicating with my team-mates on the pitch.”

What was your best moment in a VfL shirt so far?

Rogerio: “My happiest moment was definitely the goal against Leipzig, not just because it was my first for the club but mainly because my goal helped the team get the win. I hope to contribute in other games too.”

Do you have a favourite German food?

Rogerio: “I love schnitzel (laughs). When I arrived in Germany I stayed in a hotel for the first few weeks. I ate a lot of schnitzel in that time. It’s just very tasty.”

You haven’t won in nine games. What do you make of the current situation?

Rogerio: “It’s definitely not a situation we want to be in. I’m convinced our team has a lot of quality, but we don’t always put it into practice on the pitch. We’ve been unable to hold on to our lead in several games. We’ve got important games coming up in the next few weeks, which we’re focusing on and are ready for. We definitely have what it takes to turn things around.”

Up next are Leverkusen. How do you assess your chances against the league leaders?

Rogerio: “Everyone knows that Leverkusen are having an outstanding season. They’re on a really long unbeaten run. We’ve got nothing to lose. Leverkusen are really strong, but we need to play our own game in order to get a result. That’s the key.”