Marius Funk still remembers the way to the photo studio and the dressing room like the back of his hand. After all, the goalkeeper spent six years with VfB as a youngster before moving on to pastures new. Having now returned to the Cannstatt club from FC Energie Cottbus, the 30-year-old sat down with us to discuss his move back to Stuttgart.
Hello Marius! You were born in Aalen but spent six years with VfB as a youngster, working your way up from the U15s to the U21s. How does it feel to be back?
Marius Funk: “It feels like I’m coming home. I didn’t get to go home much during all those years in Fürth, Ingolstadt and Cottbus. As my partner and I are expecting a baby in November, being able to see my family more often is like hitting the jackpot. The chance to play for VfB again is also a dream come true.”
What are the other reasons behind your return to Bad Cannstatt?
Marius Funk: “I’m excited about joining a Bundesliga club who are competing in the Champions League. I want to test myself at the highest level and gain new experiences. The fact that it just so happened to be VfB who showed an interest in me makes it so much better. My home and my favourite club are one and the same now.”
You’ve had an impressive career since leaving VfB in 2016 with eight appearances in the Bundesliga, five in Bundesliga 2 and 128 in the 3. Liga. How have you changed in those 10 years?
Marius Funk: “I left as a relatively inexperienced goalkeeper and stepped out of my comfort zone for the first time, which really helped my grow as a person and develop my character. With every game I got to play, I became a better goalkeeper.”
How would you describe yourself as a person and player?
Marius Funk: “I’m a team player and an easy-going guy who gets on well with his team-mates. I also try my hardest to push myself and the players around me. As goalkeepers we make up a small team within the team, and we try to help everyone reach their best possible level. I want to play my part in that.”
