Eintracht Frankfurt’s defender Robin Koch has opened up about the disappointment of missing out on Germany’s 2022 squad during his time at Leeds United, describing it as a “very bitter” experience. However, despite the setback, Koch believes that it may have ultimately benefitted him in the long run.

In a recent interview with Frankfurter Rundschau, the 27-year-old reflected on his career trajectory and his aspirations for the national team going forward. Following his return to the Bundesliga from Leeds, Koch has managed to regain his spot in the national team setup under Julian Nagelsmann after a period of absence.

Having played a crucial role for Eintracht Frankfurt, Koch received a call-up for the current international break and was even named on the bench in the recent 2-0 victory over France. His journey back to the national team has been marked by persistence and dedication, with Koch emphasizing his commitment to becoming a key figure both for his club and the national side.

Looking ahead, Koch aims to secure a permanent place in the German squad, acknowledging the challenges he faced during his time in the Premier League, including a significant injury setback. Despite these obstacles, Koch credits his growth and development to his experiences abroad and remains focused on making a significant contribution to both Eintracht Frankfurt and the national team.

For Koch, teamwork and unity are paramount, particularly in the lead-up to major tournaments like the upcoming European Championships. Emphasizing the importance of collective effort and shared goals, he underscores the need for cohesion within the team to achieve success on the international stage. Koch is prepared to play his part, whether as a starter or a late-game substitute, drawing inspiration from past national team triumphs like Mario Götze’s iconic World Cup-winning goal in 2014.