SC Freiburg captain Christian Günter identifies the club's youth academy as the cornerstone of its success. Marking the academy's 25th anniversary, the 33-year-old praised a unique philosophy that puts the individual first.
“Even though we are a development club, it is something special and very pleasing that so many lads have taken this path,” said Günter. Last season, SC Freiburg ranked third internationally among Europe's top-five leagues for minutes played by homegrown players. Eight academy graduates featured in the Europa League final in Istanbul, with two more on the bench.
For Günter, the personal approach is key. “The person stands above everything here, and not just the football,” emphasised the left-back. He stated that every staff member over the last 25 years has contributed to the success. This philosophy shaped his own career. Born in Villingen-Schwenningen, Günter has been with the club since 2006, developing from a youth player into captain and a Germany international. “I was absolutely in the right place. I wasn't totally blessed with talent, but I always wanted to improve. That was always seen here,” he explained.
The fruits of this labour are evident in the current Bundesliga campaign. SC Freiburg sit third in the table with ten points from four games and are unbeaten in their last five competitive matches. Recent results, including a 5-0 win over Borussia Mönchengladbach, demonstrate a strong team performance.
Günter is already considering life after his playing days and can envision a role within Freiburg's football school. For now, focus remains on the pitch. The team, managed by Christian Streich, next plays at home against 11th-placed FC Schalke 04 on October 10th. The first-team squad list and further stats are available in our squad section.
Further reading: sportschau.de
