Marc Bartra interview: Part two of SPORT's chat with the star
Marc Bartra is a happy guy. The player has become key for Borussia Dortmund and Thomas Tuchel in just a couple of months after leaving Barcelona. He has enjoyed more touches of the ball per game than any other Bundesliga player in the first five weeks. The centre-back, who thanks to injury will be a doubt for the game against Real Madrid on Tuesday until right before kick-off, spoke to SPORT in an exclusive interview. Here is part two:
How about Barcelona. What do you think of them so far?
They have started well. They have a base of players that have been there for some time, along with new players who have arrived, forming a good squad. Although it’s too early to draw conclusions.
How about a Barcelona-Dortmund clash this season eh?
It would be very special. It’s always nice to face your old team, and I spent a life there. But first, what comes ahead. And what comes ahead is Madrid in the Champions League.
But right now would you take a Barça-Dortmund final?
Well, yes, (laughs), I’d take that now.
Talk German football. What differences are there from Spain?
Above all the intensity with which they play and the physical side. Maybe it’s not as technical as in Spain but more physical and this means you have to run more in the games and be more prepared for it. This, and in no moment do they give up on a ball, even if you’re 2-0 or 3-0 up, they always try, and are always capable of creating a chance when you least expect it.
It seems you’re adapting well and quickly. I think that in the dressing room they’re helping you…?
Yes, there are five or six of us who speak spanish. It’s Aubameyang who speaks it, Gonzalo Castro, who is helping us a lot, something I’ll always be grateful for. And Mikel, Adrian Ramos. This too is helping me adapt well. And the people here too. They’ve taken me in like just another guy in the group. From the first day they’ve made me feel comfortable. I thought that it would be much harder to adapt to the country, change of league, change of city, the style of life…
The weather?
Yes (laughs) this too. Although until now it’s been fine. But yes, I am preparing mentally for what will come in the next few months. I know that it will be tough.
