Hofmann: ‘The talks with Simon and Xabi impressed me’

Jonas Hofmann on...

...his decision to join Bayer 04: After the time with the national team in the summer, I felt I wanted to start a new chapter. It's an honour when a club like Leverkusen gets in contact. I had a brilliant time at Mönchengladbach and I developed there as a player and a person. It was never a decision against Gladbach but always a decision for me and my future. I can't wait to start the new chapter, I believe in the development of this club and that the success of last season will continue.

...his impression of the Bayer 04 management: The talks with Simon Rolfes and Xabi Alonso impressed me. Simon with his experience and his expertise as a former international and Xabi as an internationally recognised personality in sport. I loved watching him play football. When you talk to him about football now and he explains how he wants to play the game, what approach he has and where he sees you as a player then it is something special and very instructive. He gave me the feeling I can help the team with my qualities. After the talks, I realised it was the right step for me.

…the first training sessions under the Bayer Cross with international teammate Florian Wirtz: Flo is a really special talent. He's only 20 years old but again and again has impressively demonstrated his qualities in recent years. I'm very much looking forward to playing alongside him at club level. His ability and vision are impressive. I'm sure we'll complement each other on the pitch.

...his targets with the Werkself in the coming season: I want to be a full part of the team. The experience, not just from me but also that the other experienced new signings bring, will help us take the young players with us. Everybody wants the team to be successful and to contribute to that development. I've been struck in the first sessions by the extremely positive energy from everybody.