I’m always chilling, that’s the first thing you need to know about me. But when I’m on the football pitch, things change. Chilling is rewarding, though. I sometimes scroll through my camera roll and go back to the beginning, reminiscing about my journey. I got my first phone when I was 8, thanks to being accepted into Chelsea’s youth academy. My mum, who has a master’s degree, initially said no to a phone but eventually caved in. We had just moved to England from Germany, and I was still learning English mixed with German and “Football”.
It was challenging at first, but football served as a universal language that helped me bond with new friends. One of them was Levi Colwill, who shared the same birthday as me. Moving to Chelsea together was a big step, and being around legends like Lampard and Drogba was surreal. Taking awkward selfies with players like André Schürrle and getting photos with my idols felt like collecting Pokémon.
Eight years in England brought uncertainty as Brexit loomed, and my mum’s career prospects were uncertain. When Bayern Munich offered us a chance to move back to Germany, it felt like fate. However, a few weeks before the move, I broke my jaw, which led to a challenging period of recovery and adaptation.
Joining Bayern’s U-17 team was a significant milestone, where coach Miroslav Klose played a crucial role in shaping me as a player. The day I received the call to train with the first team was unforgettable, and the experience of being part of the squad felt like a dream come true. The supportive and welcoming environment at Bayern made me feel like part of a family, easing my nerves.
Reflecting on my journey so far, from my first training session to memorable matches and experiences, I cherish the memories created along the way. As I envision the future at 21, I hope to have a World Cup and Champions League trophies, making my family proud. Looking ahead to 26, I anticipate more achievements on and off the field, with my dad continuing his tradition of seeking photos with my teammates.
These moments captured in my story serve as a reminder of how far I’ve come and the aspirations I hold for the future. The journey of a young footballer navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and embracing growth is a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering passion for the game.
