Wieser – Hoffenheim always my preferred destination

“For me there was never any doubt that I wanted to move to Hoffenheim. A lot of young players have developed into great players here, and some have even been called up to their national teams”, said Wieser, pointing to the examples set by Andreas Beck and Sebastian Rudy, both of whom were have been to the Germany squad by manager Joachim Löw. Featuring for his national team is a feat which Wieser has already accomplished, having made ten appearances for the Lichtenstein B team. He has also appeared for his country at under-21 level, making his debut at just 16 years of age.

Curiously enough, Wiser has more international appearances to his name than top-level league appearances. Last season at FC Basel he played twice in the Swiss Axpo Super league, before a foot injury halted progress. He went on to feature eleven times for the Basel reserves. But the man himself intends to improve on his current level of league appearances: “My goal is obviously to establish myself as a key member of the team in the time that I'm here.” General Manager of Hoffenheim Ernst Tanner is convinced Wieser has all the makings of a quality player for the club. “He already has experience of international football with his country, despite his young age, and has already proved his potential. Here he will find the perfect conditions to continue his development and establish himself in the Bundesliga.”

The next challenge for Sandro is to find a new home in Sinsheim. “At the moment I'm still living in a hotel, but that won't be for long”, said the former Basel player, who played his first game for 1899 in the 2-2 friendly draw with FSV Frankfurt on Tuesday. “I'll give myself the necessary time to get used to the football that Hoffenheim play. The manager told me he'd also give me time to get settled. The game in Germany is more physical, which I will need to get used to. But when I'm needed, I'll be ready.”