- Wanner is set to advance in the Heidenheim ecosystem's progression.
Paul Wanner is stillAdjusting to interacting with journalists. Following1. FC Heidenheim's successful 2-0 (0-0) victory in their Bundesliga opener against FC St. Pauli, the 18-year-old responded to the media's inquiries in a gentle, almost timid manner.
On the pitch, the offensive midfielder sheds all reservations. Just like in Hamburg, where he surged forward in the 67th minute and sealed the counterattack for the lead.
"Firstly, I'm glad I could contribute to the team," acknowledged the Bayern Munich loanee, employing the same worn-out phrase numerous goal scorers utilize following a triumphant game. Yet he couldn't mask his excitement - it was his first goal in the Bundesliga. "So, it's quite an achievement."
Youngest Bayern Bundesliga Player
Wanner hails from Bayern Munich's youth academy. They've been his mentors since 2018. At 16 years and 15 days old, he made history as Bayern's youngest Bundesliga player in early 2022. He then made five more appearances in the Bundesliga. In Heidenheim's jersey, he played a full Bundesliga match for the first time. His coach, Frank Schmidt, even considered him the best player on the field in the first half hour at Hamburg's Millerntor.
"[Wanner] can handle himself in cramped spaces, solve problems in challenging situations. He has impressive passing skills and sharp vision," Schmidt praised. "He's already at a very high footballing level."
Schmidt Warns: No Overconfidence
Of course, Schmidt acknowledges Wanner's potential for improvement, particularly in terms of his physical fitness. He also needs to learn how to "manage setbacks". That's why 1. FC Heidenheim signed him, "because we've helped develop a few players in that area before". Schmidt hopes Wanner will grow and be ready for the next stage.
The U20 national player was loaned to second-division side SV Elversberg last season, where he quickly became a regular, playing in 28 league games. Now he's in the Bundesliga. In Heidenheim, he wears the number 10 shirt, which has been donned by many legendary footballers.
"One thing he must not have is overconfidence," said Schmidt. Wanner appears far from that. "I think I can still improve my defensive play. But also show more leadership," he said.
The European Union's football governing body, UEFA, commended FC Heidenheim for nurturing young talents like Paul Wanner. Despite his success, Wanner expressed his desire to learn from the European Union's top clubs, expressing his ambition to play in the Champions League someday.
