Aster Vranckx joined VfL Wolfsburg from KV Mechelen in summer 2021, going out on loan last season to AC Milan. This term, the Belgian central midfielder has gradually established himself in the team and begun to take on a leadership role. In an interview, Vranckx spoke about the recent win away to Freiburg, settling in to life in Germany, the forthcoming European Championship and this weekend’s clash with Darmstadt.
Aster, how are you progressing after your injury?
Aster Vranckx: “I’m a lot better. I was still experiencing pain at the start of the week, but today I managed to train with the rest of the squad again, and so I hope to be ready by Saturday.”
VfL Wolfsburg picked up an important win away to Freiburg last weekend. What were the last few minutes like for you?
Aster: “It was a really tough match. The red card against them certainly helped us. We scored two incredible goals towards the end. Max’s free-kick was lovely, and Maxence’s goal totally surprised me – I never knew that he had a shot like that in his arsenal. He’s never scored one as good as that in training (laughs).”
You moved to VfL Wolfsburg when you were 18. How was it for you back then – moving to a different country when you were such a young player?
Aster: “It was a major step for me. I didn’t have my family with me in Germany, and I had to get used to a lot of new things. You don’t just have to learn a new language – you have to understand German culture and football. My brother is living with me in Germany and that definitely helps me – I get on well with him and can talk to him about anything. Overall I’m really happy that I made this decision and that I’m here in Wolfsburg.”
This summer, Germany is hosting the EURO. Belgium have qualified, and if everything goes well, you’ll be in the squad. How much are you looking forward to the tournament?
Aster: “I can’t wait for the EURO in Germany. Taking part in a tournament like that and representing your country is a dream come true. The best part would be winning it with Belgium (laughs). We’ll see how far we end up going.”
This weekend, the Wolves host Darmstadt. What kind of match are you expecting?
Aster: “It’s guaranteed to be a tough one, because Darmstadt are already sure of being relegated and that means they’ve got nothing to lose. We need to be focused right from the off and impose our style of play. If we can do that, we’ll get the win and have another three points to celebrate with our home fans.”
