Hello, Chris. Does 9 May 2026 mean anything to you?
Chris Führich: “That wasn’t all that long ago (thinks). I suspect it’s the day I made my 200th appearance for VfB.”
That’s correct! You’re currently on 211 outings for VfB. How much does that mean to you?
Chris: “It makes me reflect on my enjoyable time at VfB, one which represents a form of progress. Over the past few years, we’ve managed to haul ourselves out of the lower part of the table and qualify for Europe on a regular basis. Personally, I’ve improved as a player and taken the next steps in my development. To have played over 200 games for VfB makes me proud. It reflects our mutual appreciation for each other.”
What milestones in your development are you particularly proud of over the past five years at VfB?
Chris: “Generally speaking, I’ve developed as a player and as a person. The 2025 DFB Cup win and our second appearance in the Champions League obviously stand out. I’ve learned to keep calm and focused when things aren’t going so smoothly. You start from scratch at the beginning of every season, no matter what you’ve accomplished before. You have to prove yourself all over again.”
How have you evolved as a player?
Chris: “I feel like I’ve become a more complete player. In previous years, it was often all about pace – all ‘go, go, go!’ Nowadays, experience has given me a better feel for the situation and the ability to make the right decision. That brings more variation and maturity to my game, without losing any of my energy.”
You were included in new Germany coach Jürgen Klopp’s inaugural squad in September and October. How did you feel about that?
Chris: “I was really pleased to be in the squad. My time with the national team was brief, but very positive. Jürgen Klopp brings new energy, great motivation and gives us a very solid game plan. It’s not all going to click after just a few days, but I’m sure it’ll turn out really well and that it’s a good fit for German football.”
Back to the Bundesliga – you’re playing Borussia Mönchengladbach at home on Friday. How do you approach that game?
Chris: “We want to give our all from the get-go to decide the game in our favour. Mönchengladbach will certainly have hoped for a better start to the season and will therefore put up a good fight against us. We’re going to need determination, energy and support from the stands. Then, together, we can get the win.”
