Kingsley Coman is determined to start his third season at Bayern Munich on a winning note in the Supercup. - © © DFL DEUTSCHE FUSSBALL LIGA
Bayern Munich's Kingsley Coman: "I want to make the breakthrough"
French flier Kingsley Coman is hoping to show the full range of his talents at Bayern Munich in the forthcoming 2017/18 season.
bundesliga.com caught up with the 21-year-old to discuss his goals for the campaign ahead and the growing influx of Frenchman to the Bundesliga...
bundesliga.com: What can be expected from the new Bundeslga season? Even more excitement in the title race?
Coman: I think that a number of clubs who fell below expectations last season have strengthened – Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Mönchengladbach, for example. That being said, we'll still be viewed as the hot favourites, and we want to stay on top. I see Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig as our main title rivals.
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bundesliga.com: How will you go into the new season?
Coman: With a big dose of self-confidence and hunger. I want to show that I can make the breakthrough, and that I'm not the young Kingsley any more. If I look after my body, I'll definitely get to play. It's a massive club and I have a lot to give. I'm absolutely convinced of that. I just hope I can stay fit. If I'm at the top level physically, I'll meet expectations. I can go a long way.
bundesliga.com: Bayern have signed, among others, James Rodriguez and your fellow countryman Corentin Tolisso. Are Bayern well equipped for all three competitions?
Coman: I think so. Although we've lost three important players in Philipp Lahm, Xabi Alonso and Douglas Costa, "Coco" will improve us with his modern style of play, much like James, who has already gained a lot of experience, especially at Real Madrid. Sebastian Rudy and Niklas Süle are also top-class players.
Watch: Bayern Munich's top 10 goals in 2016/17
bundesliga.com: What's impressed you the most since you moved to Munich almost two years ago?
Coman: The fact I've always played in front of sold-out crowds, whether it's been at the Allianz Arena or away. When you come here from abroad, you immediately notice that the fans really want to see you play live, in the flesh. It's a highlight every time. That makes every game such a joy, as a professional. The Bundesliga is fantastic!
bundesliga.com: Other than the Allianz Arena, is there a stadium or atmosphere that has impressed you more than others?
Coman: Our last away game of the season at RB Leipzig was impressive. It was pretty loud when they took a 4-2 lead. I didn't know the stadium or the RB fans before then, but it was fantastic. The wonderful atmosphere was probably down to Leipzig, second in the table, leading the champions. There was a real sense of euphoria. It was spine-tingling stuff. I was really impressed. It was like being in a Champions League semi-final.
Watch: Highlights of Bayern's dramatic 5-4 win at Leipzig
bundesliga.com: More and more French youngsters are moving to the Bundesliga. What do you think is the explanation for that?
Coman: The Bundesliga is one of the most attractive and competitive leagues in the world, and the French have an incredible number of young talents at the moment – particularly in attacking positions. They have the opportunity to maximise their development in the Bundesliga because they also get to play. It delights me every time I get to chat with a fellow Frenchman and swap shirts at the end of a game.
bundesliga.com: How do you see the Bundesliga compared to other top European leagues?
Coman: Streaks ahead, without doubt. It's a spectacular and attack-minded league. It's so much fun. It's the best in the world, alongside the Premier League and La Liga.
Kingsley Coman was speaking to Alexis Menuge
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