Neil El Aynaoui has officially joined RB Leipzig on loan from AS Roma, marking a significant addition to the club's midfield as they prepare for the ongoing season. The 25-year-old Moroccan international expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Bundesliga side in his first interview since the transfer was completed on deadline day.
El Aynaoui revealed that playing for a prestigious club like RB Leipzig has always been a dream of his. He stated, "It was always a dream of mine to play in the Bundesliga for a big club like RB Leipzig. My initial talks with the club left me with a good feeling and I was very impressed by RBL." His excitement reflects the ambitions of Leipzig, a team that has consistently aimed for top honors in German football and European competitions.
In the interview, El Aynaoui also discussed his choice of jersey number, 21, which holds personal significance. He explained, "I chose the number 21 because my younger brother was born on 21st August. So I chose it for him." This personal touch adds a layer of connection for the player as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
For fans who may not be familiar with his playing style, El Aynaoui described himself as a versatile midfielder. He noted, "I’d call myself a hybrid player. I can play at a number of different positions in midfield. I like being able to help out both in attack and defence, as well as running hard in order to help the team." This adaptability will be crucial for Leipzig as they navigate the challenges of the Bundesliga and other competitions.
El Aynaoui's connections with other Moroccan players in the Bundesliga, such as Achraf Hakimi and Ismael Saibari, also played a role in his decision to join Leipzig. He mentioned, "Yes, of course. I spoke a lot with both of them. They told me plenty of good things about the Bundesliga and Germany. They were one of the reasons that helped me decide to join RB Leipzig." Such insights from established players can often provide valuable guidance for newcomers in a competitive league.
As he prepares to face his compatriot Saibari and FC Bayern München, El Aynaoui expressed his eagerness for these matchups, stating, "I’m really looking forward to these games." These encounters will not only be significant for him personally but also for fans who enjoy the rivalry between these clubs.
Having grown up in Spain and played in various European leagues, El Aynaoui is multilingual, speaking French, Spanish, and English, with some knowledge of Italian. He expressed his intention to learn German, which will aid his integration into the team and the local culture. He remarked, "I’m now looking forward to learning another new language, namely German. Hopefully I’ll be able to get started soon."
El Aynaoui also reflected on his career highlights, particularly his experience representing Morocco at the World Cup. He called it "incredible" and the "biggest highlight of my career so far." He specifically recalled the thrilling match against the Netherlands, where Morocco triumphed in a penalty shootout during the knockout stage, a moment he will cherish forever.
In closing, El Aynaoui conveyed his excitement to the RB Leipzig fans, stating, "I’m very happy to be part of this club now. I’m excited to get underway and can’t wait to see you all soon at the Red Bull Arena!" His enthusiasm signals a promising start as he looks to make an impact in the Bundesliga this season.
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