Karabec: "I'm very happy to be here"

Adam Karabec arrived in Hamburg on Wednesday, completed a medical and signed his contract on Thursday, and took to the pitch with his new team for the first time on Friday. Some players might need time to ease themselves into things, but not Karabec – the 21-year old trained at full intensity right from the off. After his first session with the Rothosen, the Czech midfielder reviewed the past few days in the media room. Karabec spoke to the press about…

… the reasons for his move: The management at HSV went to great lengths to sign me. Claus Costa visited me in Prague and I spoke to Stefan Kuntz in Hamburg. They explained the club’s ambitions and project in detail, and I decided it was something I wanted to be a part of. I’m very happy to be here now and have the chance to play for HSV.

… his first impressions of the club: I was born in Prague, was brought up there and have always played there, so this is the first time I’ve ever really left home. That really dawned on me when I was packing my things. But it’s part of the job and I’m really looking forward to the challenge here. I’ve had a great welcome and it’s nice to be able to start straight away.

… his expectations: I’ve watched videos on YouTube of HSV’s home games and I have to say I was amazed. The stadium, the fans, the atmosphere – I can’t wait for my first home game. I really want to help the club achieve its goals. I know that HSV is a huge club with a great history, but the current project was what swung it for me.

… his role: I see myself as a versatile attacking player. I can play on the right flank, but I prefer to be in a more central attacking midfield position. That’s where I can really put my skills on show, create chances and even get off a few shots of my own. I hope to be able to contribute a few goals to help the team win as many games as possible and take us towards our targets.