Joel Zwarts and TSV 1860 Munich are facing a duel against former club Jahn Regensburg. A deployment is questionable, even if the striker is motivated.
Munich – Joel Zwarts made an impressive return to his first starting eleven since October 2023. Against Viktoria Köln, the 24-year-old Sturmhühne from TSV 1860 only needed 16 minutes to make it 1-0. It was his second goal after being out for months due to pubic bone inflammation. The lion's hope is on the way back to its old strength - but could initially be slowed down again.
Joel Zwarts from TSV 1860 Munich meets his former colleagues at Jahn Regensburg
If the Zwarts played against Regensburg (Sunday, 1:30 p.m.), TSV 1860 would have to transfer a mid-five-figure sum to Jahn thanks to a clause in their contract.
Mr. Zwarts, do you expect to play on Sunday?
I won't say anything about the contents of the contract, we'll see on Sunday.
What do you expect from the league leaders?
I know that it is a team with a lot of individual quality, but also a lot of cohesion. They fight for each other, we have to be better. We have to run more and of course be sharp in front of goal.
Are you extra motivated before a game against your old colleagues?
It's always special to play against opponents you know. This gives me a little boost.
"Very happy. As a footballer you always want to be in the starting line-up and play as many minutes as possible.”
Joel Zwarts, striker of TSV 1860 Munich, about his comeback.
How happy are you to be back on the pitch?
Very happy. As a footballer, you always want to be in the starting line-up and play as many minutes as possible. It was my chance against Cologne.
Your last starting eleven appearance was against SC Freiburg II in mid-October. Why did the injury drag on for so long?
Because it was a difficult injury. You have to get this injury under control before you can get back on the pitch. I know other players who had the same injury. Things didn't go so well for me, so we did everything slowly, step by step.
You were also at home in the Netherlands during your injury. Why?
It was about personal things. I also receive great medical care in Munich. In Holland I was able to work in peace and quiet with people I had known for a long time. They know how my body is structured and how I move. I've had good experiences there before and trust them.
“As a striker you always want to score goals, every goal is good for your head.”
Joel Zwarts, striker of TSV 1860 Munich, about his two goals.
How difficult was the time?
It was difficult physically but also mentally. But through my faith I always stayed strong and fought back.
The two goals since your return also help mentally...
In any case. As a striker you always want to score goals, every goal is good for your head.
Interview: Marinus Obermaier