Kilian Jakob: “My phone was full with congratulatory messages”

20-year-old Kilian Jakob made his Bundesliga debut in last weekend’s home game against TSG Hoffenheim. Despite the loss, Jakob was delighted to have made his debut in a FCA shirt and is looking forward to the next game, which kicks off on Saturday 10th March in Hannover (KO 15:30 CET). Kilian Jakob has now had time to think over the game against TSG Hoffenheim; however, he’s been able to go over the match and is now hoping for points against Hannover 96. “I still have to go over some details from the game against Hoffenheim, but now we have to get ready for Hannover and we have to perform better and pick up some points.” He is self-critical of himself and the team and knows that mistakes were made. “We didn’t really find our way into the game. Now we’re focusing on delivering in Hannover,” Jakob analyses. He is keeping his first match-worn shirt with the number 25 on the back. “Maybe the next one will go to my mum,” jokes Jakob. The many congratulatory messages on his phone spurred him on further after the game.

From Munich to Augsburg

Jakob and his family moved to Munich for job-related reasons. The left-footer began his career with FC Dreistern Neutrudering in the Bavarian capital. After being watched by scouts and taking part in trials, Jakob joined the 1860 München U13 team and worked his way up through the junior ranks to the U23s. Jakob, born in Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler, then joined the first team and transferred to FC Augsburg in the summer. After moving to Augsburg, he developed well and became a prospect to play in the Bundesliga. However, he was still surprised to make his first appearance for the first team. “I never expected everything to move so quickly and I’m so happy that it’s finally happened after six months. I found out the week before the game that I was in the squad and then the confirmation came on Saturday,” explains Jakob.

Gain experience with the U23s

Despite his first-team debut, he sees himself as a part of the second team: “The first team’s injury list is extensive at the moment and I hope I can make it back into the squad. As soon as everyone is fit again, I’d like to return to the U23s and continue gaining experience. I want to have 90 minutes on the pitch.” Jakob has already thought of how to celebrate his first-team debut: “I’m going to bring in a few rolls or croissants into the changing room. Then we’ll have a tasty breakfast!”