VfB Star Angelo Stiller in a Children's Interview: »I Want to Write My Own Story«

In a candid conversation with DEIN SPIEGEL, the children's edition of Der Spiegel, VfB Stuttgart's dynamic midfielder Angelo Stiller offered a glimpse into his life both on and off the pitch. The interview, conducted in the intimate setting of the VfB team locker room, allowed Stiller to connect with a young audience, sharing his journey from aspiring footballer to a key player in the Bundesliga.

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As a small child, I often re-enacted important games like this on the local pitch and pretended to hold up a trophy. In reality, it felt even more beautiful.

Stiller, who has become a vital presence in Stuttgart's midfield, reflected on his development, including his formative years at Bayern Munich's famed academy. He detailed his transition from an offensive role to the crucial defensive midfield position ('the Six'), a move he now embraces as his favorite, allowing him to leverage his strengths as a link between defense and attack. This insight into tactical evolution is particularly valuable for young aspiring players learning about the nuances of the game.

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I always had only Plan A, and that was football.

Beyond the technical aspects, Stiller shared personal anecdotes, revealing his pre-game rituals, such as always putting on his left shin guard and shoe first, and his reliance on an energy drink. He also touched upon the powerful emotional impact of winning the DFB-Pokal, describing it as an even more beautiful experience than the childhood dreams he once acted out on the local pitch. Seeing his family's pride in the stands during the final in Berlin was a deeply moving moment for him.

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I always put on my left shin guard and my left shoe first because that is my strong foot.

From the perspective of a German sports publication, Stiller's interview is more than just a celebrity chat; it's a narrative of dedication, adaptation, and the realization of dreams. It highlights the importance of mentorship, as seen in his training with Thiago Alcântara, and the psychological preparation required at the highest levels of professional football. For young German readers, Stiller serves as an inspiring role model, demonstrating that with hard work and a clear vision – his 'Plan A' was always football – even the most ambitious goals are attainable.

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Seeing my relatives in the stands so proud was very emotional for me.