Bayern Munich versatile player explains decision to move

Bayern Munich loanee Paul Wanner explains decision to move to Heidenheim over other Bundesliga clubs

This was the crucial decision; this is supposed to be his last step before he is ready for the senior team…if he gets it right

The news that Bayern Munich youngster Paul Wanner officially joined Heidenheim was a welcome one, with a move to a Bundesliga club openly one the Bavarian giants were hoping for; the potential for European football is just an added bonus.

However, there were other clubs more established in the Bundesliga (and PSV) also interested in a loan. From a list containing an iconic Bundesliga club such as Werder Bremen and two teams with Champions League football in VfB Stuttgart and Eredivisie champions PSV, why did Wanner choose to go to Heidenheim?

Sport Bild asked that question on the day Wanner signed for Heidenheim, and his answer was fairly lengthy. The former SV Elversberg loanee had this to say: “I made a very conscious decision for Heidenheim and am looking forward to it. But I think it speaks for the season I had in Elversberg that were several good inquiries. [Heidenheim’s head coach] Frank Schmidt told me very honestly and openly what he wanted from me. Intensity was actually an important topic, the coach showed me a graphic: Heidenheim has the most intense running game in the entire league.”

Intensity was always one of Wanner’s weaknesses, but he has worked on it in recent years and believes he is up to the challenge. “I was able to work on myself in this area in Elversberg and improve my game off the ball. I was able to experience a year of tough competition at a professional level. But now it’s another level again.”

This is it, the Bundesliga. Time to show what you are made of, Paul.