Wiese: “We can achieve great things with this team”

At this point, Tim Wiese is a proper TSG player. On Tuesday evening, he completed his first minutes in the colours of Hoffenheim with a convincing display and some outstanding saves. He conducted his back line with motivation and criticism for 45 solid minutes. This is just how Markus Babbel pictured his new number one. “I had a few weeks on holiday; I was in Dubai for ten days, then a couple of days in Bremen and then I visited my mother in Cologne. I'm pleased that things are now underway and that I'm here at TSG,” said Wiese.

The gossip factory worked overtime when the national team keeper announced his intention to leave Werder Bremen, deciding not to renew his contract after 7 years with the club. One of the most prominent parties interested in him were record-breakers Real Madrid. Wiese confirmed that Jose Mourinho wanted to speak to him personally about moving to the Spanish capital: “He was interested in me, but he also made it clear how important Iker Casillas is to them. In the past, there have been many quality German keepers who moved abroad and it didn't work out for them, for example Robert Enke or Timo Hildebrand.” It wasn't an excuse for Wiese though; he's a family man. The 30 year old has already found a new home in Rauenberg for his life-partner Grit, his baby daughter Alina and himself.

Ultimately, his decision to stay in the Bundesliga is one made with his family in mind. “My family wanted to stay in Germany, and I know how much Germany and the Bundesliga means to me as well. The stadiums are packed. The division is one of the best in the world. I don't regret my decision.” Wiese is utterly convinced that he can achieve his ambitious goals with TSG. “We can achieve great things with this team. Hoffenheim came close to a European spot last year. That has to be our goal this season too. Sixth place is definitely achievable.”

Along with the other experienced players in the squad, Wiese needs to help lead the youngsters. He has already proved his is capable of doing so, both at Bremen and with the national team. As a result he can be a considered a strong candidate to succeed Andi Beck as club captain. “I have no problem with taking responsibility. That applies to the captaincy too. I'm an employee of the team. If the coach appoints me, then I'm ready.”

Initially, the signing of Wiese was incomprehensible for fans. Few people were critical of Wiese as a person, but many were concerned about the departure of crowd favourite Tom Starke. Back in Bremen he had to win the fans over to begin with too. The example he set of a winning mentality earned him a lot of sympathy. “You have to assert yourself everywhere. It's no different at Hoffenheim than anywhere else. When I moved to Bremen, Andreas Reinke was the goalkeeper. He was a fan-favourite too. I came up against a headwind there at first as well, but then I could convince the fans that I was good enough. What's important is that next year we all give 1000 percent to get success - the team and the fans.” One thing pleases Wiese particularly about the upcoming season. “I don't have to play against Sejad Salihovic again. His free kicks have caused me enough problems already.”