Mio Backhaus: A Keeper’s Resolve Amid Relegation Battle

omidbasir- As his team prepares for a challenging relegation battle, Werder Bremen goalkeeper Mio Backhaus has shared insights about his “fighting hairstyle” and how the competition posed by Arsenal loanee Karl Hein has motivated him to elevate his performance. In his debut Bundesliga season, the Mönchengladbach native and newly appointed Germany U21 No. 1 has excelled for both his club and country. While many may not place their bets on his team at this moment, Backhaus maintains confidence in himself and his teammates.

Since taking over as Bremen’s No. 1 goalkeeper, Backhaus sported a striking artificial blonde hairstyle; however, he recently revealed his natural dark hair ahead of last week’s match against Bayern Munich. The 21-year-old believes that this new look will contribute positively to the team’s efforts in accumulating crucial points for survival in the top tier.

“It is indeed a fighting hairstyle,” Backhaus remarked in an interview set to be published in Kicker’s Thursday edition. “While I appreciated the blonde look, my teammates prefer this new style. I’m confident we will secure numerous points with it.”

Reflecting on the team’s atmosphere, Backhaus said, “When I observe the guys in training, they don’t seem discouraged. Although there are tense moments, the players remain upbeat. We are here to enjoy football and maintain a positive mindset to climb the table.”

“Our current position isn’t ideal, but we have enough matches left to turn things around,” he added. “I believe that by season’s end, we will be able to look back and say, ‘Wow, that was a tough but ultimately rewarding season.’ I see the effort the players are putting in, and I’m confident it will pay off.”

Hein temporarily filled in for Backhaus during consecutive Bundesliga matches in late September and early October, delivering impressive performances that sparked discussions about potentially making his position permanent. Months later, Backhaus remains unfazed by this competition.

“Karl performed well and applied a bit of pressure on me,” he acknowledged. “I used that as motivation to return stronger. The competition has been beneficial for my growth. There have been numerous moments where I’ve been able to assert, ‘I’m here and ready to help the team.’”

Of dual German and Japanese heritage, Backhaus has the option to represent Japan on the international stage. Despite forming a friendship with Southampton loanee and Japanese international Yukinari Sugawara, he has ruled out switching his allegiance.

“With the World Cup approaching, my focus is solely on Werder Bremen,” Backhaus emphasized. “We need to remain in the league. I am trying to block out distractions for the time being.”

“While the next international break is scheduled for March, I certainly won’t be playing for Japan then,” he concluded. “Not at this stage, anyway.”