Although the goalkeeper spoke with his agent about possible options, he quickly made the choice to stay at Werder. “I knew in May that I would stay if we got promoted. The Bundesliga is one of the best leagues in Europe and the world. I wasn’t close to leaving,” he said. The Czech shot stopper couldn’t say whether or not he would like a new challenge later on in his career or if he’d stay in Bremen until retirement. “My dream was obviously to play in England and the Premier League. However, with a family it’s not always about what’s best for your career. I need to think about where I can take my two children. I hope to play here for a few years yet, though my main focus remains on this season.”
Pavlenka is optimistic ahead of the new campaign, even if he’s well aware of Werder’s new expectations compared to last season. “The mood is positive within the team. We’ve worked hard and we’ve had some really tired legs at times. It’s going to be a bit different being back in the Bundesliga. We were the favourites in every game last season. I’m excited to be back though, and I’m looking forward to playing against clubs like Bayern and Dortmund. Our club with all its history and tradition belongs here. I hope this season is a successful one.” Despite the fact that this squad hasn’t played together in the Bundesliga yet, the 30-year-old believes in the team’s quality. “Our goal is to remain in the Bundesliga. We have to function as a team. We can’t have any stars – everyone on the pitch has to work hard for their teammates,” he stressed.
