- That's how he overcame his motivation issues.
Niklas Süle (28) understands why he didn't make it into the Euro 2022 squad of Germany's national football team coached by Julian Nagelsmann (37). In a recent interview, the Borussia Dortmund defender talks about his recent transformation, past motivational issues, and his thoughts when he had to watch the Euros from the sidelines.
When asked about his reported eight-kilogram weight loss since the end of last season, Süle tells "Sport1", "I've had the most intense summer of my life." He adds that it was "absolutely necessary."
"Of course, you think: 'Shit, man'"
He acknowledges that he had lost his starting spot and missed out on the Euros, saying, "Those are things I have to take responsibility for. I didn't deserve to be nominated for the Euros by Julian Nagelsmann." He finds the decision understandable. He watched the national team's games while training, thinking, "Shit, man, for the last few years, you were always part of the team. And now they're playing football, and you're basically living in the gym."
Süle explains that he struggled mentally to do the right things. "I couldn't motivate myself anymore. I wanted to, but I couldn't. Fortunately, everything was fine in my private life. I had many important conversations and sought help."
Becoming Niklas Süle 2.0
Süle assembled a team with his family and agent. He's been working with an excellent mental coach for some time, and his recent cooks have been "top-notch." "I went into this break with the goal of creating a new version of myself, Niklas Süle 2.0. Now I'm mentally in a place I haven't been in a long time," he says. Although it was tough, he can now "really go for it again."
Looking back at his current state, Süle feels "happy and proud." He's in great shape, both physically and mentally, with room for improvement. He'll be "fit as a fiddle" for Borussia Dortmund's first match of the season.
After his intense summer training, Niklas Süle shares, "I'm looking forward to the Summer holidays, as they'll provide a well-deserved break before the new season." Reflecting on his transformation, he acknowledges, "The changes I've made during my summer holidays have significantly contributed to my mental and physical resurgence."
