When people talk about Germany's greatest talent these days, the name Jule Brand is usually mentioned. The 19-year-old starlet has joined VfL Wolfsburg ahead of the new season. Her carefree display in the Women’s EURO semi-final against France, when she replaced Klara Bühl in the starting line-up and put in an impressive performance, was a sign of what she’s capable of. Having been with her new team for around a week now, Brand spoke to us about the next stage in her career as well as her expectations for her debut season in green and white.
Jule Brand, how big a step is it going from TSG 1899 Hoffenheim to VfL Wolfsburg?
Jule Brand: “Because I played with a lot of my teammates recently at the EURO, it’s not that big. That at least helps you to settle in on a personal level. But of course, Wolfsburg are at a very different level. In any case, it was the right step to move away from home and leave my comfort zone.”
Last season, two other players joined VfL from TSG in Lena Lattwein and Tabea Waßmuth. Did you talk to them about your transfer?
Jule: “Yes, we spoke about it regularly and I also asked them a few questions. Perhaps they got a bit annoyed, but they spoke very highly of VfL Wolfsburg.”
You’re very versatile and have already played in a lot of different positions in your young career. Where do you see yourself?
Jule: “Given that I’ve mostly played on the wing in recent times, I’d say that’s where I see myself. I tend to play on the left, although I also like switching during the match.”
Just going back quickly, how did you perceive the increasing hype during the course of the EURO and your increasing popularity?
Jule: “My phone almost exploded, it was worse than birthdays. In the days following the tournament, I was at home with my family and mostly chilled in the garden. I went to Speyer twice and I didn’t get accosted much more than before, but I certainly noticed a few looks – not in an uncomfortable way, so it’s all good.”
What are your aims with VfL Wolfsburg?
Jule: “Win titles – but all of us in this team want that. As many as possible, ideally. I obviously want to play as much as possible myself, but I haven’t set any concrete targets as far as that’s concerned.”
