Rasica: I want to become an idol to Kosovo children

The Kosovo representative's interview, granted for German prestige.

Mr. Rasica, you've come during January Bremen. But we don't know much about you...

Rasica: I'm a very normal guy. After the preparation, I am usually home with my girlfriend (Bekliz Kara). She's been very supportive. I can talk to him about anything. After all, she's a very good cook.

And do you have any German favorites?

Rasica: The rice with milk! My hometown is also a traditional food. But that's where we eat it cold.

How much do you miss home?

Rasica: It was a big step for me when three years ago I came from Kosovo to the Netherlands. There are not many players from my country playing on one of the five leagues of the world. For this achievement, we must be proud. I want to become an idol for the children of Kosovo.

How is football in Kosovo?

Rasica: In the last three years it's been done a lot. New stadiums have been built, and there are many sponsors supporting clubs. As far as I was, this has been harder. At that world Kosovo was not part of UEFA and FIFA. I didn't have the chance to play nationals, just like now.

And yet, you have reached the Bundesligla...

Rasica: That is why I thank my family very much, and she is always by my side and supports me. When I was a kid, my father always sent me in car preparation. He's a dentist with a lot of work. But he did so with pleasure. Today, my family doesn't miss my fight. They're very proud of me.

How Important Is Religion to You?

Rasica: Very important. 90 percent of Kosovars are Muslims. I try to follow the rules of religion as much as I can. I don't eat pork and I don't consume alcohol, and I pray and pray. The month of Ramadan, however, cannot be entirely fasted, as even the athlete lives.

How are you getting ready with Werder?

Rasica: I feel great. Winters I couldn't do well after I got late. And I noticed that in spring season. I am now conventionally at the same level as others, working every day with other boys, and I am very busy.

Last season, you were only five times on the first team. Were you expecting more?

Rasica: The first few months were very difficult for me. I needed some time to adjust. The difference between the Netherlands league and Bundesliga is enormous. The rhythm is high in matches, the stadiums are larger and the most intensive preparations. I had to work hard on the tactical side, especially in defense. At the end of the season, I achieved that, even well.

What goals have you set for your new season?

Rasica: I want to help the team with goal and assisting. I worked hard in preparation and tried to convince the coach. I want to play, even though we have a very strong competition in the sides position. I'm never calm and I want to prove myself to my limit. In the end, it's the coach who decides who plays.

What do you think your chances against Worms are for the first team?

Rasica: I'm very prepared. I'd love to be on the first team. Whether he wants to play left or right. But it's the coach's decision again.

And you're the fastest team ever, right?

Here are some fast players on the team. I don't know if I'm the fastest. At least my associates tell me I'm a rocket.