Marc Bartra and Mateu Morey, former Barcelona players who both had stints at Borussia Dortmund, shared their memories of playing at the iconic Signal Iduna Park.
Both teams, which will face off in a thrilling Champions League match this Wednesday, have a special place in their hearts.
Bartra recalls his time in Germany with great fondness, describing the experience as a valuable learning opportunity. The Bundesliga is known for its high intensity and physicality, and Bartra believes this was key to his development.
“It was a football master for me to play in a very competitive and physical league, where defensively and transitionally I had to take that step forward,” he began saying.
Even after his departure, Bartra continues to receive messages of affection from the club’s supporters. He describes Dortmund as a family-oriented club that left a lasting impression on him.
“I still feel a very special affection from followers who write to me today. It’s a family and exceptional club,” he said.
Marc Barta’s warning
Marc Bartra has warned Barcelona about the atmosphere of Signal Iduna Park. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)
As Barcelona prepares for their Champions League encounter in Dortmund, Bartra offers a warning about the intense atmosphere they will encounter.
He explains that Signal Iduna Park has a unique energy, with fans creating an electrifying environment that fuels the players.
“They will find a Champions atmosphere one hundred percent.
“The intensity with which the team plays is contagious to the fans and the fans are contagious to the team with their way of cheering and a very special communion is created.”
The connection between the team and the fans is special, and the energy is mutual—fans drive the team, and the team responds to that energy.
“I’m sure we’ll see a great match, a great show between two clubs that I’m incredibly fond of,” he added.
Mateu Morey’s experience
Morey, who knows Borussia Dortmund inside out, is also confident that the German side will pose a serious challenge.
Mateu Morey played for Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund. (Photo by Robert Hradil/Getty Images)
He highlights Dortmund’s attacking prowess, emphasizing that their offensive strength is one of the most dangerous aspects of their game.
“The attack is the most dangerous thing. They are not a team of individuals, anyone can make a difference”.
The team is known for its quick counter-attacks and ability to exploit space. Morey notes that while individual brilliance is important, Dortmund’s strength lies in the collective effort, with anyone on the team capable of making a decisive impact.
“They are very good on the counter-attack, they don’t care if the other team has the ball, they know what their weapons are and they try to take advantage of them,” he noted.
Like Bartra, Morey is in awe of the fan base at Signal Iduna Park. The stadium, often referred to as the “Yellow Wall,” creates an atmosphere that is difficult to describe.
“The Signal Iduna Park is an incredible stadium, it is very difficult to explain in words what you feel when you go out to play.
“With the yellow wall… they don’t stop cheering throughout the game and any opponent is weighed down by that stadium because it is very impressive,” he said.
Barcelona will undoubtedly have to brace themselves for this incredible atmosphere as they face Borussia Dortmund in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Source: SPORT