Team

Silvan Hefti: “I’ve already experienced a lot”

HSV newcomer Silvan Hefti spoke to the media about his transfer to HSV, his prospective role in the team, and reunion with compatriot Miro Muheim.

Silvan Hefti, who yesterday became Hamburg’s fourth summer signing, completed his first training session this afternoon at the Volksparkstadion. Having made the transfer from Genoa CFC, the Swiss former youth international brings with him the experience of 300 professional matches already under his belt. Everything has once again changed for Hefti in a short period. The 6ft right-back began the year with the new challenge of a loan spell at Montpellier in the south of France, but north Germany and Hamburg can now be called home by him, his wife, and their nine-month-old son. Hefti will have help to settle in from old acquaintance Miro Muheim, with whom he played together at FC St. Gallen. The 26-year-old spoke to the press this morning about his reunion with “Quattro M” as well as about his targets with HSV. Silvan Hefti discussed...

…his transfer to HSV: In my talks with the people in charge, it was obvious that HSV is a special club, but also that we have to work very hard to achieve our goals and that I’ll be able to play an exciting role in that, which had me interested right away. I am here to play my part but also to further my own progress. The challenge of not only developing as a footballer, but as a person off the pitch as well, is an interesting one and was key in my decision.

…his HSV goals: We make no concessions regarding our ambitions. I have arrived with the intention of achieving nothing short of promotion. However, we must remain humble. It will take a lot of work to achieve this goal and that is common knowledge in the camp. I believe I am good under pressure in this aspect. I have already experienced a lot in my career, playing in big stadiums like the San Siro and in big competitions like the Champions League. I have played in a number of heated matches and faced tricky situations, both in the race for titles and in the fight against relegation.

“I have played in a number of heated matches and faced tricky situations”

…the opening-day win in Cologne: It was a good game, with both teams fighting hard. I’m happy about the result. It was a tough contest and I saw what will be needed of me in this league. I am a physical and tough-tackling player, but I often also look to go on the attack.

...teammate Miro Muheim: We’ve already played together and always had a good relationship, even despite not speaking recently after our footballing paths diverged. We went for something to eat yesterday, and that strong connection returned straight away. I’m pleased to have a fellow Swiss player here.