Ahead of the important Europa League match against FC Porto, Mario Stroeykens spoke openly about his current form, his ambitions and the changes in his game. The 20-year-old midfielder is in great form and wants to continue his success , with the Red Devils as the ultimate objective.
Stroeykens is looking forward to the clash against FC Porto, a team with a rich history in European football. “It will be a great experience. Porto is a great team with many qualities. A club with a great history and a general reputation. It’s a great opportunity to show where I am in my development”, said Stroeykens in the conference press release this Wednesday.
He explains that his development is largely due to the trust he receives. “I’m now playing more consistently and getting more minutes than in previous seasons. It helps a lot because you grow in your role and your game.”
When all ideas are clear, it’s easy”
One of the key points of his recent progress is his change of role on the field. Stroeykens is now playing higher up and that seems to suit him perfectly. “It is very clear that I can play higher, therefore another role. For me it seems very natural. It is something that was clear from the first day, both for the coach and for me. When all the ideas are clear, it’s easy to adapt,” he explains in reference to the difference between Brian Riemer and David Hubert.
The attacking midfielder is grateful for the impact of coach David Hubert, who pushed him forward. “I think that decision changed a lot of things. Yes, the connection with Kasper (Dolberg) came quite naturally. Playing around good players makes things more obvious. With someone like Kasper Dolberg, everything just works. You you don’t have to explain anything to him. How he runs, how he plays… it’s all done by instinct.
I dream of becoming a Red Devil”
The national team is an important goal for Stroeykens, and he has no doubt he is ready for that step. “I definitely want to become a Red Devil. Right now, I think I’ve taken a good step forward and I’m ready. I’m ambitious, and that helps me push and improve every day.”
However, he remains critical of himself. Stroeykens has scored 4 goals and made 6 assists in 21 games this season. Not bad, but he wants more. “I’m happy with what I’ve been able to bring so far, but I’m not satisfied. There’s always room for improvement. I want to continue to challenge myself and achieve my goals by the end of the season. What goals? Score more. I know I’m on the right track.”
