- Under the spell of Heidenheim, Schmidt's pace slackens.
Paul Wanner and 1. FC Heidenheim shake up the Bundesliga. Partially due to the loan from FC Bayern Munich, the Swabians are leading the table following two matchdays. The excitement in the Ostalb region is palpable. Coach Frank Schmidt attempts to calm it down in his usual manner, even the buzz surrounding young Wanner. However, the 18-year-old appears unfazed.
Schmidt underscores the team unity
Indeed, the newcomer has been performing "quite remarkably" according to Schmidt, post the impressive 4:0 victory over FC Augsburg, with Wanner adding another goal and assist on Sunday. They're "extremely content" with his performance. However, Schmidt cautions, "But," he adds, "I seek sympathy. It's too much about Paul Wanner for me." The entire team is responsible for the series of five victories in the initial five competitive matches, the 50-year-old maintains. At FCH, the team always comes first. If there's an "extra bonus," that's welcome.
Wanner falls into this category. He's already scored four competitive goals for his new club. Heidenheim is enjoying the wave of success - in the league, cup, and even the Conference League. Wanner is right in the thick of it, yet maintains his humility. "I have a supportive home environment, I'm well looked after," he mentioned about the accolades he's receiving in Heidenheim.
Former Ulm player Scienza also gets off to a strong start
Team mate Léo Scienza, another newcomer who's making an impression in Heidenheim and scored against Augsburg, has already nicknamed Wanner as "Paulinho." The Brazilian-born Scienza played with SSV Ulm in the 3. Liga last season. Now he's participating alongside Wanner and the remarkably powerful FCH in the first league.
Frank Schmidt requests for Frank Schmidt, please, to address the growing attention towards Wanner, emphasizing the team's unity and the contribution of each player. Following his outstanding performance against FC Augsburg, Wanner remains humble, attributing his success to his supportive home environment.
