Alaba: "We've never had it easy in Hoffenheim"

David, you celebrated a very convincing victory away to Chelsea in the Champions League on Tuesday. What's the mood like and what's making you so strong at present?

"The atmosphere within the team is obviously really good. We're the leaders in the Bundesliga and performed impressively away to Chelsea in the Champions League, especially in the second period. And of course, the positive mood within our camp is currently being reflected in our performances on the pitch."

You're off to Hoffenheim on Saturday. What kind of game are you expecting?

"A difficult and very intense match. Bayern Munich have never had it easy in Hoffenheim in recent years. Hoffenheim like to play football – even against us – and have very good and, above all, highly skilled players in their squad."

The reverse fixture ended in defeat for Bayern, while the cup clash was a thriller. What sets TSG apart?

"TSG try to play courageous football and always try to find creative solutions when it comes to their attacking play. They performed very well in the reverse fixture in the league at our place – and won too – but in the DFB Cup a few weeks ago we were able to adapt better and went through with a 4-3 victory. We're obviously hoping for the same again in Hoffenheim this time and to cement our lead at the top of the table with a win."

You spent half a year playing for TSG in 2011. What memories do you have of that time?

"It was a great time for me; everything was very positive. The half-year I spent on loan at Hoffenheim from Bayern was an important step in my career. I played all 17 matches in the second half of the season, which really, really helped my development back then. I'm very grateful to TSG Hoffenheim and everyone at the club for that."

Match facts and statistics »