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Berlin (AP) - The upcoming away game for Bundesliga soccer team Hertha BSC at Arminia Bielefeld arouses special emotions.
On the one hand there will be a reunion on Sunday at Bielefelder Alm (6 p.m. / Sky) with Hertha's loaned Arne Maier, on the other hand, coach Bruno Labbadia and sports director Arne Friedrich have an Arminia past.
"If you don't know Bielefeld, the city that doesn't actually exist has missed something," said Labbadia before the away game.
The coach from Darmstadt stormed for Arminia from 1998 to 2001 and scored 50 goals in 98 games.
Labbadia still describes Bielefeld as an “incredibly liveable city”, with which contacts are still available.
"I like the people there," said the trainer, who was happy about the Arminen's rise.
There is also still contact to Arne Maier.
The midfielder had insisted on a change at the beginning of the season in order to get more playing time with the promoted team.
However, Maier remained prone to injury in East Westphalia and did not get the desired minutes.
Labbadia now wishes the U21 international a better time.
"But it doesn't have to be against us," added the coach with a smile.
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Sports director Friedrich also closes a circle that is associated with special moments.
The native of Bad Oeynhausen, whose professional career began in the largest city in East Westphalia, was even on the field with today's Hertha coach in the 2000/2001 season.
But feelings no longer count on Sunday, the 3-0 victory against Schalke 04 should be confirmed.
"We definitely want to win two games in a row," said Labbadia.
Hertha BSC website
Information about the match at bundesliga.de