First Team

“Time to set out on a different path”

An interview with talented youngster and new VfL signing Bence Dardai.

The acquisition of Bence Dardai aligns perfectly with VfL Wolfsburg’s philosophy of signing talented, hungry youngsters for their first-team squad so they can develop them and turn them into even better players. Eighteen-year-old Berlin native Dardai, who along with David Odogu was part of the Germany squad that won the European Under-17 Championship last year, wants to take those next steps with the Wolves. In this interview, Dardai also talks about his strengths and weaknesses and looks ahead to the coming campaign.

You come from a very special family who clearly love their ball sports: Your grandfather was a footballer, your mum was a Hungarian handball international and until recently, your dad [Pal, former Hertha BSC head coach] had three of his sons – Palko (25), Marton (22) and you – in his first-team squad. Who does your dad think is most talented? Or is he staying diplomatic on the matter?

Bence (laughing): “Well, I hope he thinks I’m the most talented! I actually believe he thinks we’re all talented and he’s also very proud that all three of his sons play football.”

How hard was it to break up that family group and leave Berlin?

Bence: “I found it pretty difficult. I played there for many years, but it was time to set out on a different path. I’ve done that now with VfL. The first few days and weeks have been great and I’m feeling really settled.”

You’re reported to have received several offers from well-known German and foreign clubs. What made you choose the Wolves?

Bence: “I had a lot of good talks and quickly gained a very good impression of the club and its infrastructure, which all point to a bright future in the coming years. It quickly became clear that Wolfsburg was a great option. The proximity to my family was also a factor. It only takes 50 minutes or so to get to Berlin on the train, which is brilliant.”

You were with your new colleagues at VfL’s training camp recently. How did you enjoy it?

Bence: “It was incredibly enjoyable, and the conditions were very good. Everything’s obviously a lot of hard work in pre-season, which is normal. I’m just pleased that the season is about to start.”

Are you already looking forward to your Bundesliga debut?

Bence: “Of course, but I’m not putting any pressure on myself. I just want to enjoy playing football, which I think you can see. That said, I’m confident it will happen soon. Let’s wait and see.”

What would you say are your strengths and weaknesses?

Bence: “I’d say my strengths include my vision and my passing. I definitely need to work on my weaker left foot – I’m currently doing just that with certain passing and shooting exercises.”

Your next chapter begins in earnest in just over a week – first with the cup tie in Koblenz, then a huge game against Bayern. How important is it to make a successful start to the season?

Bence: “It’s always good to make a positive start to the season. It immediately gives you the belief you need and lets you play with a certain confidence. If you make a good start, everything becomes easier.”