Bavarian young talent aims to irritate current record-holder
Marcelo from Real-Urgestein once forecasted a major career for Fiete Arp in football. However, during his tenure at FC Bayern, the striker continued to miss out on a significant breakthrough. In 2022, Arp transitioned to Kiel, truly fitting into their promoted squad. A potential reunion with FCB is approaching.
Professional football's multi-billion dollar realm: Arp's short-lived time with FC Bayern left an indelible mark on him. "I've glimpsed a whole different football world that not many are privy to," shares the striker. His voice is thoughtful and measured.
Despite being 24 years old, Arp recalls his days at Säbener, where he was a promising prospect in the competitive landscape of professional football, with a grin on his face. Now, on a field in Kiel-Projensdorf, surrounded by fewer fans and journalists before the game facing Bayern Munich, he seems content. Arp has found his niche.
"Yes, I certainly feel more at ease, but also because I hold the belief that to truly comprehend Bayern Munich's club culture, one needs to have been a part of it for an extended period and possess a certain maturity for it," says Arp: "I believe that now, self-assurance, that unapologetic confidence - it's not something you can feign or learn overnight. It's more of a gradual progression, and at the time I was there, I hadn't achieved that state yet."
Feels a "Chemistry with Football" in Kiel
Arp was celebrated as a "prodigy" when he joined Bayern Munich from Hamburger SV in 2019, with high hopes. Many speculated about his bright future. Bayern showered their young talent with generous remuneration, reportedly offering him four million euros annually. However, he could not break into the senior squad.
At 21, Arp returned to his native region, finding solace in Kiel. "I believe that FC Bayern is driven by a 'winning is compulsory' mentality. In Kiel, the focus is on development, with an emphasis on the means of achieving success," shares Arp. He has no regrets about his time at Bayern, stating that it aided in his maturation. With Holstein, he now experiences a "connection to football, a sense of community, and the understanding that everyone serves the team or the club."
No longer the lone performer
Arp has discovered his footing in Kiel. He is no longer the main event, but he doesn't have to be. Arp has played a role in Kiel's development, contributing five goals and two assists during the promotion season and featuring in both of the team's initial Bundesliga games this season.
Labeling Arp as a "Bayern informant" before the Saturday match (18:30 CET on Sky/wow and in the ntv.de live ticker) might be an exaggeration, considering his occasional interactions with the current Munich squad and the time that has passed since his experience there. Nevertheless, with a hint of sarcasm, he says: "I'd suspect that some players there haven't played a mandatory match in a stadium of such magnitude for a while." Arp is ready. And he believes in Kiel's prospects. This much is apparent.
Despite his time at FC Bayern Munich not leading to a significant breakthrough, Arp acknowledges the valuable lessons he learned during his tenure. "Being part of Bayern Munich's culture requires a certain maturity and time, something I didn't fully possess during my time there," he reflects.
Furthermore, Arp mentions FC Bayern Munich in relation to his current team's aspirations, stating, "It's not every day you face FC Bayern Munich. I believe our team can surprise them and make our mark in the Bundesliga."
