Team

“You have to enjoy the game”

New HSV signing and Bundesliga veteran Yussuf Poulsen spoke to the media about his move from RB Leipzig to a newly promoted side, his role as a leader and his passion for the game.

“You don’t need to say much about Yussuf Poulsen,” said HSV board member for sport Stefan Kuntz upon announcing the signing of the Bundesliga stalwart – and he’s right. Poulsen is a household name among football fans in Germany. He’s been a Bundesliga regular for a decade, with 233 appearances, 49 goals and 27 assists to his name. The 1.92-metre-tall striker has also won two DFB-Pokal titles (2022 and 2023) and lifted the Supercup in 2024.

Poulsen is, in short, the face of Bundesliga consistency – and HSV are hoping he’ll bring that experience and quality into their top-flight return. Having joined the squad in Herzogenaurach on Monday evening (14th July), he took part in training for the first time on Tuesday morning. Though still easing back into things after his summer break, his presence around the group was immediately felt. After 12 years at RB Leipzig, it would be normal to need time to adjust, but Poulsen knows that football teams are, at their core, not all that different. “I was made to feel really welcome,” he said during his first media session on Tuesday afternoon. “The squad and the staff behind the scenes are all open and relaxed people.” And in that session, the man who supposedly needs no introduction had plenty to say – including about his move to HSV. He spoke in detail about…

...his move to HSV: You don’t need to say much about this club. HSV is one of the biggest names in German football. It doesn’t matter that the club spent seven years in the second division. Last season, it felt like every home match was sold out, which speaks volumes, and that’s what convinced me. I love playing football. And I want to play as much top-level football as I can – that’s what has always driven me throughout my career.

…his connection to HSV: The first continental match I ever saw live in a stadium was in 2005. It was a UEFA Cup game between FC Copenhagen and HSV. I was in the upper tier above the HSV fans, behind the goal where the penalty was taken. I remember that match vividly, even though I was a young lad cheering for the Danish side. But even back then, I could already feel the energy of the Hamburg supporters.

…his approach: I’m really looking forward to the task ahead. The momentum from promotion can carry you through the following season – I experienced that myself 10 years ago with Leipzig. Some of the players here, who’ve been under the pressure of trying to get promoted year after year, can now finally play with a bit more freedom. That joy in playing football is so important – you always have to keep that in mind. Yes, football is about results, about winning games. But to win, you need to enjoy the process. Fun is a crucial foundation for success

…room for improvement at his age: You can always improve – in every part of life. There’s no such thing as 100 percent. Perfection doesn’t exist. Even at 30-plus, I know I can still get better. Some people say that’s not possible at this age, but I try to improve every single day. Maybe I won’t get any faster, but there are so many areas, especially the mental side of things, where you can keep pushing your performance.

…leaving Leipzig after 12 years: Saying goodbye on Monday was emotional – it was definitely harder than making the actual decision to leave. But that’s part of life. You go through tough moments. In the end, we parted ways on good terms, without any resentment. I’m grateful to have played for one club for so long, which is something most footballers dream of, because it allows you to build a real emotional connection. Leipzig isn’t my hometown, but it became a second home. And for that, I’m truly thankful.