PSV coach Roger Schmidt on the signing of Mario Götze: 'We weren't his first option'
Roger Schmidt says PSV weren't Mario Götze's 'first option' when he contacted the midfielder eight weeks ago.
After being linked with various clubs since he left Borussia Dortmund at the end of last season, Mario Götze ended up signing for Dutch side PSV, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal on Tuesday to the surprise of many.
Speaking in an interview with Bild, PSV coach Roger Schmidt has revealed how the move came about.
"About eight weeks ago, I talked to Mario on the phone and asked about his plans. It was a very nice, positive conversation. My feeling was that maybe he could look for a more quiet environment, where he could enjoy playing football again. Of course, I knew that we weren't his first option and that he would consider many other offers," said Schmidt.
When Götze made it known that he would like to join PSV, it all went very fast.
"The transfer was completed within three or four hours on Tuesday evening. It was all quite extraordinary," said Schmidt.
The 28-year-old midfielder will now be looking to build match fitness as fast as possible.
"Mario looks fit to me, but it's clear that he hasn't been in team training for a while. He will certainly not be able to play 90 minutes every three days at the moment, but getting playing time will quickly put him in the best possible shape," said SChmidt.