Former Liverpool goalkeeper Karius joined Schalke 04 in the summer window. In an exclusive interview with German media "Pictures", he talked about his "super big mistake" when he played against Real Madrid in the Champions League final that year.
How do you feel? Has the calf injury been fully recovered?
Carius: "Every training helps me keep improving. I will quickly return to 100%. My goal is to be at its best when the season opener against Hertha Berlin. But that doesn't mean I will stop there. I'm 32 years old, and it's not a problem for the goalkeeper. I can still learn something new, continue to develop myself and improve my performance."
If you reiterate your mistakes in the 2018 Champions League final, will you blame us?
Karius (rolling his eyes): "I really can't talk about this anymore, because I have said it too many times, and this topic has been explained thoroughly. Of course, many people remember me because of that game, but it is an old story. If I hadn't made those mistakes at that time, my career might have reached a higher level, after all, I had been smooth sailing before that. But on the other hand, who dares to say that I can go to that point and play in the Champions League final? Perhaps only 1% of goalkeepers can do it. I can sleep well now!"
As you said: few German goalkeepers have played in the Champions League final, even if the ending is regrettable. Why have you never been called up for the national team?
Carius: "In that era, you had to maintain a high level for two or three consecutive years to be called up. Now the pace is much faster. As for why I was defeated in the end, the reason is unknown. This is a pity. But on the other hand, Neuer would not give a substitute at that time, and even if he was selected, he could only sit on the bench. Although I really wanted to participate in the competition, that would be a wonderful experience." Is the topic of
ended?
Karius (smile): "At least this is the case at this stage! I don't think about it at the moment. But I am only 32 years old. It would be stupid to assert that I will continue to retire in the Bundesliga. I have this ambition and always pursue the limit."
Will you end your career at Schalke?
Carius: "I haven't thought about this yet. My career is in autumn, and I will continue to play as long as my body allows me. Of course, I hope to return to the Bundesliga one day. It is definitely an option to achieve this goal in Schalke!"