'I want to win titles with Bayer 04'

Julian Brandt on…

…reasons for contract extension:
"Over the past weeks and months, I have again and again said a contract extension is definitely a possibility providing the club and I find common ground. At the end of the day, I felt very good after all the discussions. Several factors played a role. One significant reason is clearly the team: In my opinion, we have a great team – with fantastic players and great characters. I really enjoy playing for Bayer 04 and beyond that, I feel my time here isn't over as yet."

…contract negotiations:
"The discussions between the club, my father and me were much more open conversations than tough negotiations. For me, it was primarily about taking time to think, and work out what I really want. Everything else was of secondary importance. The club gave me the time I needed and then, at some point, I felt that I'd like to stay at Bayer 04."

…offers from other big clubs from home and abroad:
"It wasn't and isn't important to me. At the end of the day, I extended my contract at Bayer 04 because I was convinced. That's the only thing that counts. Bayer 04 are now more than just a nursery club. The whole package is very attractive and there are good arguments for coming out on top against other clubs in transfer matters."

…recent contract extensions for Lars Bender and Jonathan Tah:
"Obviously that sends out a signal – even though it was less important in my decision making. But, of course, you're aware of it as a team-mate. When people like Lars or Jona say they want to remain part of the group and stay here because they have confidence in the team and everything else then that obviously is a signal for you too. Then you're inclined to say: 'Hey, I'm really up for taking that path too."

…his ambitions at Bayer 04:
"We still have a couple of tough games to come this season. We definitely want to qualify for the Champions League and that's a personal target for me too. Those are the primary targets. Over the long term, my aim is to win titles with Bayer 04. And I don't really mind which. I'm firmly convinced we can achieve that. I believe the team is completely capable of that in terms of character also due to talent and potential."

…more responsibility:
"It's not just because of the new contract that I want and should assume greater responsibility. I'm not approaching it systematically but I'm just trying it here by opening my mouth and passing on what I've learned and experienced in the past seasons. However, it's clear that players are given more responsibility the longer they're at a club or the older they get. But I'm still fitting in so I don't intend to aim for the captain's armband." (he laughs)